1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1981 Volvo 265
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 153 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 265 weights approximately 147 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146.
Because 1981 Volvo 265 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 1981 Volvo 265. 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, 1981 Volvo 265 (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 265 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 | 1981 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 146 | 265 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2660 mm |
