1973 Fiat 124 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 (90 HP) has 31 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1973 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 124 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 1973 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 (115 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 124 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Fiat | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 124 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 90 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 67.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 50 L |
