1983 Volvo 740 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 2,316 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volvo 740 (180 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volvo 740 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Volvo 740 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 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1983 Volvo 740 (260 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1983 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volvo 740 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 740 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2316 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 91 mm |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
