2003 Volvo V50 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo V50 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | V50 | 156 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2524 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |
