2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 TVR 1600
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 TVR 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 TVR 1600 would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 TVR 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (114 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1972 TVR 1600. (84 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 TVR 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 444 kg more than 1972 TVR 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 TVR 1600 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 TVR 1600. 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 (146 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 TVR 1600. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 TVR 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 TVR 1600 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | TVR |
| Model | 156 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 896 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2290 mm |
