2008 Renault Megane vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 2008 Renault Megane 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 1,580 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Megane (81 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Megane weights approximately 225 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 Renault Megane, 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 Renault Megane (124 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Renault Megane | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | Megane | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 76 HP |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2610 mm |
