2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1980 Ferrari 512 BB
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ferrari 512 BB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ferrari 512 BB would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1980 Ferrari 512 BB is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ferrari 512 BB (355 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (300 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ferrari 512 BB should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 458 kg more than 1980 Ferrari 512 BB.
Because 1980 Ferrari 512 BB 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 1980 Ferrari 512 BB. 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, 1980 Ferrari 512 BB (460 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (385 Nm). This means 1980 Ferrari 512 BB 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 | 1980 Ferrari 512 BB | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | 156 | 512 BB |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3458 cc | 4942 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2510 mm |
