2001 Opel Vectra vs. 1970 Volvo 120
To start off, 2001 Opel Vectra is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Vectra (142 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Vectra weights approximately 285 kg more than 1970 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Opel Vectra, 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, 2001 Opel Vectra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volvo 120. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Vectra | 1970 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Vectra | 120 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
