2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1957 Austin-Healey 100
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,639 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1957 Austin-Healey 100. (101 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1957 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1957 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Austin-Healey 100 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 1957 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Austin-Healey 100. (143 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1957 Austin-Healey 100 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin-Healey |
| Model | 156 | 100 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
