1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 Ford Gran Torino
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 6,553 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (152 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Gran Torino should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 764 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 Ford Gran Torino. 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (403 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. 1972 Ford Gran Torino has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Ford Gran Torino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 Ford Gran Torino | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | 156 | Gran Torino |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 6553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 403 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 2014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |
