2005 Volvo S40 vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 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 2,434 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S40 weights approximately 405 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 Volvo S40, 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 Volvo S40 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Volvo S40 | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
Make | Volvo | Volvo |
Model | S40 | 120 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2434 cc | 1580 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 76 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 118 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2610 mm |