1978 Volvo 260 vs. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 (185 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1978 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 260 | 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 260 | 166 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 69 L |
