2005 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 147 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2670 mm |
