2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1990 Volvo 240
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1990 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1990 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1774 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2660 mm |
