2008 Opel Astra vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 270 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 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2610 mm |
