2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1987 Volvo 740
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Volvo 740 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 253 kg more than 1987 Volvo 740.
Because 1987 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 1987 Volvo 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1987 Volvo 740 (239 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1987 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1987 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2780 mm |
