2007 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1962 Volvo 120
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1962 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1962 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 214 kg more than 1962 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volvo 120. (142 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volkswagen Golf | 1962 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 120 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1224 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
