1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Holden GTS
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden GTS would be higher. At 4,141 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Holden GTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Holden GTS (158 HP @ 4550 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Holden GTS should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Holden GTS weights approximately 125 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 1978 Holden GTS 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 1978 Holden GTS. 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, 1978 Holden GTS (327 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1978 Holden GTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. 1978 Holden GTS 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. 1978 Holden GTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Holden GTS | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Holden |
| Model | 156 | GTS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 4141 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2830 mm |
