2000 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2000 Alfa Romeo 156. (120 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2000 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2000 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Volvo 260 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 1979 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1979 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Alfa Romeo 156. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
2000 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | 156 | 260 |
Year Released | 2000 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2664 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2660 mm |