2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 49 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 4,371 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac XLR (444 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 368 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 565 kg more than 1959 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR, 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, 2008 Cadillac XLR (561 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 443 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | XLR | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4371 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 561 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2610 mm |
