1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1962 Austin A 40
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1962 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1962 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1962 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Austin A 40 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 1962 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1962 Austin A 40 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin |
| Model | 156 | A 40 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 64.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
