2001 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1980 Volvo 265
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 265 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 265 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 (255 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 265. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 265. 1980 Volvo 265 has automatic transmission and 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Volvo 265 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1980 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2660 mm |
