Comparing: WZ-120 vs. AMX 30 1er prototype

Initially, the WZ-120 (Type 59) tank was a copy of the Soviet medium T-54A tank. In later modifications the tank was upgraded. Between 6,000 and 9,500 vehicles of all variants were manufactured from 1958 through 1987.

Developed as part of a competitive search for a unified European tank. The vehicle turned out to have maneuverability, engine power, and effective anti-tank engagement distance superior to all other vehicles except the Leopard 1. The armor of the vehicle was quite thin, but it was decided that technological advances in anti-tank shells had essentially rendered armor obsolete: survivability would depend on mobility and firepower.