2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 960 (120 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Volvo 960 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 1990 Volvo 960. 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 (275 Nm) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (143 Nm). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 960 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2780 mm |
