2005 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 46 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 500 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt (203 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Cobalt | 120 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2610 mm |
