1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1970 Volvo 120
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1970 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 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, 1970 Volvo 120 (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1970 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1970 Volvo 120 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | 146 | 120 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1970 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 80 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2610 mm |