2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1977 AMC Matador
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 AMC Matador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 AMC Matador would be higher. At 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1977 AMC Matador. (120 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1977 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 351 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1977 AMC Matador 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 1977 AMC Matador. 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 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 AMC Matador. (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 AMC Matador. 1977 AMC Matador 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. 1977 AMC Matador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1977 AMC Matador | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | AMC |
| Model | 156 | Matador |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 4982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 87.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1861 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 92 L |
