1996 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 1972 Fiat 124
To start off, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 (139 HP) has 80 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145, 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 | 1972 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 145 | 124 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2500 mm |
