2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1968 Volvo 120
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 274 kg more than 1968 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 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 (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1968 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1777 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
