2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 260 weights approximately 10 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 1978 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 1978 Volvo 260. 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, 1978 Volvo 260 (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (164 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 1978 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | 156 | 260 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1774 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 | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 164 Nm | 219 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 73 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |