2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Volvo 164
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 164. (142 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 164 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1974 Volvo 164 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 1974 Volvo 164. 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, 1974 Volvo 164 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Volvo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Volvo 164 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 164 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1360 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |
