2005 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1981 Volvo 265
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 265 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. (104 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 265 weights approximately 157 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Volvo 265 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 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147, 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 265 (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. (140 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 265 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1981 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 147 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2660 mm |
