2004 Ford Focus vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 45 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (144 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 187 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, 2004 Ford Focus, 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, 2004 Ford Focus (202 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (115 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 120 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1581 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2610 mm |
