1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Volvo 265
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 265 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (136 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 265 weights approximately 54 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 265 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 1978 Volvo 265. 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 (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 265. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 265 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
