2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 665 kg more than 1959 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Volvo 120 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 1959 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159, 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 159 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | 159 | 120 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1580 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 76 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 118 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |