2001 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1966 Volvo 120
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 (104 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1966 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1966 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 256 kg more than 1966 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 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 1966 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 1966 Volvo 120 (145 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. (140 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1966 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1966 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 147 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
