2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1956 Volvo 120
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 52 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 49 more horse power than 1956 Volvo 120. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1956 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 214 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, 2008 Citroen Xsara, 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 Citroen Xsara (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1956 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | Xsara | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1209 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2610 mm |
