2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Volvo S90
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S90 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S90. (177 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S90 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1997 Volvo S90 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 1997 Volvo S90. 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, 1997 Volvo S90 (260 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S90 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 | 1997 Volvo S90 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | S90 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
