1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1961 Volvo 120
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 37 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 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 HP) has 128 more horse power than 1961 Volvo 120. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 325 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, 1998 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1961 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
