2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 67 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2670 mm |
