2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass
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 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 130 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (380 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 156 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 5735 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2960 mm |
