1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 Rover P5B

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 Rover P5B. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Rover P5B would be higher. At 3,528 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Rover P5B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Rover P5B (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Rover P5B should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Rover P5B weights approximately 240 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 Rover P5B 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 Rover P5B. 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 (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Rover P5B. (295 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Rover P5B. 1972 Rover P5B 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 Rover P5B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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