1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,519 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 49 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (320 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (304 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.4 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.9 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
