2001 BMW M vs. 1962 Volvo 120
To start off, 2001 BMW M is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 1962 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 1962 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M weights approximately 365 kg more than 1962 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 BMW M (345 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volvo 120. (142 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M | 1962 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M | 120 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 58 L |
