2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1952 Austin Princess
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 Princess. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Austin Princess would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 Austin Princess is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1952 Austin Princess. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1952 Austin Princess. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Austin Princess weights approximately 745 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1952 Austin Princess 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 Princess. 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, 1952 Austin Princess (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1952 Austin Princess will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1952 Austin Princess has manual transmission. 1952 Austin Princess will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1952 Austin Princess | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin |
| Model | 156 | Princess |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 3993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3360 mm |
