2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1980 Volvo 265
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 265. (82 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 265 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1980 Volvo 265 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 1980 Volvo 265. 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 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 265. (145 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1980 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2315 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 58 L |
