2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Ferrari 308
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 2,927 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ferrari 308 (255 HP @ 7700 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ferrari 308 weights approximately 27 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 1979 Ferrari 308 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 1979 Ferrari 308. 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, 1979 Ferrari 308 (283 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1979 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Ferrari 308 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | 156 | 308 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2927 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 7700 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 283 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 71 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2560 mm |
