2005 Citroen Xsara vs. 1956 Volvo 120
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1956 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1956 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 296 kg more than 1956 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Citroen Xsara, 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 Citroen Xsara (241 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen Xsara | 1956 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | Xsara | 120 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1291 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2610 mm |
