2009 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1961 Volvo 120
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (104 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1961 Volvo 120. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1961 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 252 kg more than 1961 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo, 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 Volkswagen Polo (153 Nm @ 300 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Polo | 1961 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Polo | 120 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
