2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 Volkswagen 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 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP) has 85 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 426 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volkswagen 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 Volkswagen 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 (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 69 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
