1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2000 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,848 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2000 Alfa Romeo 146. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2000 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2000 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 1980 Volvo 260 (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Alfa Romeo 146. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 260 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2000 |
| Engine Size | 2848 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 75.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2550 mm |
