2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1956 Volvo 120
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1956 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1956 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1956 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1956 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2610 mm |
