2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1989 Volvo 740
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 740. (116 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 740 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1989 Volvo 740 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 1989 Volvo 740. 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, 1989 Volvo 740 (194 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 740 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 740 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1989 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| 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 | 173 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 194 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1260 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
