1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 Volvo C30
To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 is newer by 14 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo C30 weights approximately 101 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, 2012 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volvo C30 has manual transmission. 2012 Volvo C30 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2012 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.6 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.5 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
