2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1960 Volvo 120
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (74 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1960 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1960 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 220 kg more than 1960 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 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 1960 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (140 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Volvo 120. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1960 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
