2001 Honda S-MX vs. 1969 Volvo 120
To start off, 2001 Honda S-MX is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1969 Volvo 120. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1969 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Honda S-MX weights approximately 300 kg more than 1969 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Volvo 120. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Honda S-MX will offer significantly more control. 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 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volvo 120. (167 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Honda S-MX | 1969 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Honda | Volvo |
| Model | S-MX | 120 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2610 mm |
