2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Volvo 480. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer significantly more control. 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 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 58 L |
