2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1988 Volvo 740
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 740 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volvo 740 weights approximately 65 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 1988 Volvo 740 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 1988 Volvo 740. 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, 1988 Volvo 740 (239 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 740 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 | 1988 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2780 mm |
