2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1983 Volvo 240
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,316 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1983 Volvo 240. (112 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1983 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Volvo 240 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 1983 Volvo 240. 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, 1983 Volvo 240 (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1983 Volvo 240 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 | 1983 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2660 mm |
