2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 Opel Manta
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Opel Manta would be higher. At 2,385 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1972 Opel Manta. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1972 Opel Manta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Opel Manta 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 1972 Opel Manta. 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 (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Manta. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Manta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2440 mm |
