2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Volvo V90
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo V90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo V90 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 70 more horse power than 1998 Volvo V90. (177 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo V90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo V90 weights approximately 79 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1998 Volvo V90 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 1998 Volvo V90. 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo V90. (260 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo V90.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 Volvo V90 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | V90 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
