1996 Volvo 850 vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 263 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 850 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 850 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2461 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
