2006 Volvo S40 vs. 1960 Volvo 120
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1960 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1960 Volvo 120.
Because 1960 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 1960 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Volvo 120. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S40 | 1960 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1948 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |
