2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1972 Volvo 164
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1972 Volvo 164. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1972 Volvo 164. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volvo 164 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 1972 Volvo 164. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volvo 164. (241 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1972 Volvo 164 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 159 | 164 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
