2001 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147.
Because 1981 Volvo 240 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 240. 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, 1981 Volvo 240 (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 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 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 147 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2660 mm |
