1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 32 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 385 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, 2012 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 260 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Size | 2848 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
