1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1961 Volvo 120
To start off, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (192 HP) has 133 more horse power than 1961 Volvo 120. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1961 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Volvo 120 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 1961 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164, 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, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1961 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 164 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
