1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1978 Volvo 66
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (102 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66.
Because 1978 Volvo 66 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 1978 Volvo 66. 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (261 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1978 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 146 | 66 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 261 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1550 mm |
