2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1971 Volvo 140
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 140. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 140 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1971 Volvo 140. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volvo 140. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1971 Volvo 140. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volvo 140 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 1971 Volvo 140. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166, 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 166 (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volvo 140. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volvo 140.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1971 Volvo 140 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 166 | 140 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2610 mm |
