1968 Volvo 120 vs. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 (192 HP) has 125 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1968 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Volvo 120 | 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 120 | 164 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1777 cc | 2959 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 192 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.2 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 72.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2670 mm |
