2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Chevrolet Nova (143 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 320 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 1974 Chevrolet Nova 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 1974 Chevrolet Nova. 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, 1974 Chevrolet Nova (340 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (147 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 1974 Chevrolet Nova 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. 1974 Chevrolet Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Chevrolet |
| Model | 156 | Nova |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5736 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |
