2006 Volvo S80 vs. 1956 Volvo 120
To start off, 2006 Volvo S80 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S80 (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1956 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1956 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S80 weights approximately 537 kg more than 1956 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80, 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 S80 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S80 | 1956 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 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 Weight | 1532 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2610 mm |
