2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1971 Austin 3
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,910 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Austin 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (162 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1971 Austin 3 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 1971 Austin 3. 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, 1971 Austin 3 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (207 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1971 Austin 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1971 Austin 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin |
| Model | 156 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
