1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,314 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 240 (111 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 30 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 1981 Volvo 240 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 1981 Volvo 240. 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 (255 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | 156 | 240 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2314 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 111 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2660 mm |