2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1971 Austin 3
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,910 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Austin 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1971 Austin 3 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 1971 Austin 3. 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, both vehicles can yield 218 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1971 Austin 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin |
| Model | 156 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
