2003 Alfa Romeo GT vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT (162 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 260 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo GT.
Because 1981 Volvo 260 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 1981 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT, 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, 1981 Volvo 260 (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo GT. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo GT.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo GT | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | GT | 260 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
