2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (210 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 280 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1988 Ford Thunderbird 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 1988 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird 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 | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | 156 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3177 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2880 mm |
