1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volvo 242 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volvo 242 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 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 1986 Volvo 242. 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 (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 242. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 242.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | 146 | 242 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 97 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 93 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2660 mm |