2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Volvo 343
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 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1979 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Volvo 343 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 Volvo 343. 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 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | 156 | 343 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 218 Nm | 108 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |