2005 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1988 Volvo 740
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 740 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volvo 740 weights approximately 5 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 1988 Volvo 740 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 1988 Volvo 740. 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, 1988 Volvo 740 (239 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 740 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 | 1988 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 147 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1908 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2780 mm |
