2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1968 Opel Diplomat
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Opel Diplomat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Opel Diplomat would be higher. At 5,354 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Opel Diplomat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Opel Diplomat (227 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Opel Diplomat should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Opel Diplomat weights approximately 298 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Opel Diplomat 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 1968 Opel Diplomat. 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, 1968 Opel Diplomat (427 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1968 Opel Diplomat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 1968 Opel Diplomat has automatic transmission and 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1968 Opel Diplomat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1968 Opel Diplomat | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Diplomat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 5354 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
