2008 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147.
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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S40. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S40. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 147 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1460 mm |
