2006 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1968 Volvo 120
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 2400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 152 kg more than 1968 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1968 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | 120 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1777 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 2400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1162 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
