2008 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (118 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 192 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 147 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2670 mm |
