1999 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 196 kg more than 1959 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Volvo 120 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Cavalier | 120 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
