2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 Volvo 1800
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1972 Volvo 1800. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1972 Volvo 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volvo 1800 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 1972 Volvo 1800. 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, 1972 Volvo 1800 (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1972 Volvo 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 1800 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| 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 | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2460 mm |
