2008 Volvo S80 vs. 1970 Volvo 120
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 649 kg more than 1970 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80, 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 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volvo 120. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volvo S80 | 1970 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1679 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2610 mm |
