2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1952 Austin A
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Austin A would be higher. At 3,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 Austin A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1952 Austin A. (124 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1952 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Austin A weights approximately 515 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1952 Austin A 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 1952 Austin A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Austin A. (288 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1952 Austin A | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin |
| Model | 156 | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 3992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 288 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 111.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 34 L |
