2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Volvo 240 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 1981 Volvo 240. 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 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | 159 | 240 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 183 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |