1960 Volvo 120 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1960 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1960 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1960 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 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 1960 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156, 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 Alfa Romeo 156 (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Volvo 120. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Volvo 120 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 120 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 63 L |
