1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1964 Volvo 120
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1964 Volvo 120. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1964 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1964 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 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 1964 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, both vehicles can yield 145 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1964 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 146 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |
