2011 Volvo S40 vs. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2011 Volvo S40 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S40 weights approximately 404 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (134 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. 2011 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Volvo S40 | 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Volvo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | S40 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1579 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4475 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1453 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 50 L |
