1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1955 Rover P4
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Rover P4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Rover P4 would be higher. At 2,230 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Rover P4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (143 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1955 Rover P4. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1955 Rover P4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Rover P4 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1955 Rover P4 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 1955 Rover P4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Rover P4. (153 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Rover P4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1955 Rover P4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Rover |
| Model | 156 | P4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2230 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 73.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
