2008 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1985 Volvo 740
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volvo 740 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1985 Volvo 740.
Because 1985 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 1985 Volvo 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volvo 740. (240 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volvo 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1985 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 147 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2780 mm |
