1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Renault 4
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 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (58 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Renault |
| Model | 156 | 4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 845 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 58 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 38 L |
