2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1987 TVR 420
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 TVR 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 TVR 420 would be higher. At 4,225 cc (8 cylinders), 1987 TVR 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 TVR 420 (300 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 TVR 420 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 310 kg more than 1987 TVR 420.
Because 1987 TVR 420 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 1987 TVR 420. 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, 1987 TVR 420 (393 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1987 TVR 420 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 | 1987 TVR 420 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | TVR |
| Model | 156 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 4225 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 59 L |
