2004 Opel Astra vs. 1966 Volvo 120
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (125 HP) has 58 more horse power than 1966 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1966 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 315 kg more than 1966 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 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 1966 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Volvo 120. (145 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 1966 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 120 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 45 L |
