2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1975 Volvo 264
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 264. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 264 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Volvo 264 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Volvo 264 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Volvo 264 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Volvo 264 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Volvo 264 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 1975 Volvo 264. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1975 Volvo 264 (203 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1975 Volvo 264 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1975 Volvo 264 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 264 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
