2009 Nissan Altima vs. 1969 Volvo 120
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1969 Volvo 120. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1969 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 47 kg more than 1969 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volvo 120. (167 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Altima | 1969 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Altima | 120 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 45 L |
