2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 47 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 120 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
