2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1983 Volvo 740
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 2,316 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1983 Volvo 740. (180 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1983 Volvo 740. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Volvo 740 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 1983 Volvo 740. 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, 1983 Volvo 740 (260 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1983 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1983 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 159 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
