1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,269 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (136 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (108 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 465 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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 (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (279 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 156 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 4269 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2850 mm |
