2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1975 Volvo 260
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 66 kg more than 1975 Volvo 260.
Because 1975 Volvo 260 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 1975 Volvo 260. 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, 1975 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1975 Volvo 260 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 | 1975 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2660 mm |
