2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1961 Volvo 120
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP) has 114 more horse power than 1961 Volvo 120. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1961 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Volvo 120 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 1961 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1961 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 995 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
