2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1978 Volvo 265
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 151 kg more than 1978 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 265 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 1978 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 1978 Volvo 265 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 265 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. 1978 Volvo 265 has automatic transmission and 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 265 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1978 Volvo 265 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | 159 | 265 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1908 cc | 2664 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1404 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |