2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Volvo 240 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 1981 Volvo 240. 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 (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | 156 | 240 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 164 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 206 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2660 mm |