2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 Volvo P 1800
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo P 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo P 1800 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1972 Volvo P 1800. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo P 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 416 kg more than 1972 Volvo P 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volvo P 1800 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 1972 Volvo P 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volvo P 1800. (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volvo P 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 Volvo P 1800 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | P 1800 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
