1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2010 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 30 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, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260. 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, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 260 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
