2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 960. (204 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1990 Volvo 960 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 1990 Volvo 960. 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 (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (267 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 960 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1560 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
