2006 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1978 Volvo 264
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 264. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 264 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 264 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 39 kg more than 1978 Volvo 264.
Because 1978 Volvo 264 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 264. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166, 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 264 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 166. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 264 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1978 Volvo 264 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 166 | 264 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 60 L |
