1978 Volvo 164 vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 164. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 164.
Because 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volvo 164. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 164. (204 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 164 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 164 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 3195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 322 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5610 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3350 mm | 2710 mm |
