1981 Ferrari 512 BBi vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi (340 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi weights approximately 214 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi 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 Ferrari 512 BBi. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi (451 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 512 BBi | 156 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1970 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 91 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1499 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 63 L |
