2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,848 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 64 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260.
Because 1980 Volvo 260 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 260. 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 (289 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2660 mm |
