2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1973 Fiat 130
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 130. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 130 would be higher. At 3,237 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Fiat 130 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Fiat 130 (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Fiat 130 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Fiat 130 weights approximately 305 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 130 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 1973 Fiat 130. 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, 1973 Fiat 130 (255 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1973 Fiat 130 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 1973 Fiat 130 has automatic transmission and 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Fiat 130 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1973 Fiat 130 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 156 | 130 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 3237 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
