2004 Ford Focus vs. 1961 Volvo 120
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (135 HP) has 76 more horse power than 1961 Volvo 120. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1961 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 361 kg more than 1961 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 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 (178 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1961 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 120 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
