2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1975 Volvo 240
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 240 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 1975 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1975 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Volvo 240. 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 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 240. (158 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1975 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 166 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 158 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 | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2650 mm |
