2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 TVR M
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 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 TVR M would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 TVR M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1972 TVR M. (105 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 TVR M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1972 TVR M. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 TVR M 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 M. 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 (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 TVR M. (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 TVR M.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 TVR M | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | TVR |
| Model | 156 | M |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2290 mm |
