2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 50 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 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 266 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Traverse | 120 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2610 mm |
