2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1976 Volvo 240
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,385 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1976 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Volvo 240. 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 (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1976 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2650 mm |
