2003 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1987 TVR 420
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 16 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 53 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 TVR 420 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 95 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147, 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 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1987 TVR 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1987 TVR 420 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | TVR |
| Model | 147 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3178 cc | 4225 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 246 km/hour | 266 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 59 L |
