1972 Volvo 1800 vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 (104 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1972 Volvo 1800. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volvo 1800 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146.
Because 1972 Volvo 1800 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 1972 Volvo 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 1972 Volvo 1800 (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (125 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1972 Volvo 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Volvo 1800 | 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 1800 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1370 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2550 mm |
