2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1957 Austin-Healey 100
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,639 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1957 Austin-Healey 100. (101 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1957 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1957 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Austin-Healey 100 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 1957 Austin-Healey 100. 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 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Austin-Healey 100. (143 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Austin-Healey 100. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1957 Austin-Healey 100 has manual transmission. 1957 Austin-Healey 100 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 | 1957 Austin-Healey 100 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin-Healey |
| Model | 156 | 100 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
