1965 Volvo 120 vs. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (123 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1965 Volvo 120. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1965 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1965 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164, 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, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Volvo 120 | 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 120 | 164 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1776 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
