2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1963 Volvo 120
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1963 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1963 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 330 kg more than 1963 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 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 1963 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1963 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2323 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
