1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (136 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 150 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.
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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | 156 | S40 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2386 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 136 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 304 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |