2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
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 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, 1981 Volvo 240 (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (147 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 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 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | 156 | 240 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
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 | 120 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |