2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 Ford Gran Torino
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 4,095 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (97 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 135 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 1972 Ford Gran Torino. 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (245 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 1972 Ford Gran Torino has manual transmission. 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 | 1972 Ford Gran Torino | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | 156 | Gran Torino |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 4095 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 87 L |
