2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Plymouth Volare
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Plymouth Volare. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Plymouth Volare would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Plymouth Volare is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1979 Plymouth Volare. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1979 Plymouth Volare. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Plymouth Volare weights approximately 55 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1979 Plymouth Volare 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 1979 Plymouth Volare. 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (306 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Plymouth Volare. (232 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Plymouth Volare.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Plymouth Volare | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Plymouth |
| Model | 156 | Volare |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2870 mm |
