2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Subaru DL
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Subaru DL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Subaru DL would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1981 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1981 Subaru DL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (147 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Subaru DL. (101 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Subaru DL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Subaru DL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Subaru |
| Model | 156 | DL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
