2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,946 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. 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, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 159 | V40 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
