1996 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2012 Volvo C30
To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo C30 weights approximately 281 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (134 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2012 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 146 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
