1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 21 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 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 (102 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146.
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, 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 (261 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 260 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 261 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2550 mm |
