2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Holden GTS
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 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Holden GTS would be higher. At 4,141 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Holden GTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Holden GTS (158 HP @ 4550 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Holden GTS should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Holden GTS weights approximately 90 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 Holden GTS 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 Holden GTS. 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 Holden GTS (326 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1979 Holden GTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 1979 Holden GTS 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. 1979 Holden GTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Holden GTS | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Holden |
| Model | 156 | GTS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2490 cc | 4141 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2830 mm |
