2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 960 (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 160 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 1996 Volvo 960 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 1996 Volvo 960. 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, 1996 Volvo 960 (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (164 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 960 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 | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 960 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1774 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2780 mm |
