2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1970 AMC Ambassador
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 AMC Ambassador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 AMC Ambassador would be higher. At 4,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 AMC Ambassador (210 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 140 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 1970 AMC Ambassador 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 1970 AMC Ambassador. 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, 1970 AMC Ambassador (414 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1970 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 1970 AMC Ambassador 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. 1970 AMC Ambassador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1970 AMC Ambassador | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | AMC |
| Model | 156 | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 4981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 414 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 87.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3110 mm |
