2005 Nissan Altima vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (250 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Altima weights approximately 465 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 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (338 Nm) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (115 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Altima | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Altima | 120 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1581 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2610 mm |
