2002 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 21 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 (246 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (111 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | 147 | 240 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2314 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 246 HP | 111 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2660 mm |