1983 Volvo 240 vs. 2000 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volvo 240 (122 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2000 Alfa Romeo 146. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 2000 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volvo 240 weights approximately 65 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 1983 Volvo 240 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 1983 Volvo 240. 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 (260 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volvo 240. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volvo 240 | 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 240 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2127 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2600 mm |
