2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Volvo S90
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S90 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S90 (177 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S90 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S90 weights approximately 342 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volvo S90 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 1998 Volvo S90. 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, 1998 Volvo S90 (260 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (147 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S90 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 | 1998 Volvo S90 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | S90 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1572 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
