1977 Volvo 260 vs. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,662 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1977 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Volvo 260 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 1977 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1977 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 166. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1977 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volvo 260 | 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 260 | 166 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2662 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2600 mm |
