1980 Volvo 343 vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1980 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volvo 343 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 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Volvo 343 | 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
Model | 343 | 156 |
Year Released | 1980 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2492 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 187 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 108 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |