2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 Vauxhall Firenza
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 Vauxhall Firenza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Vauxhall Firenza would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1972 Vauxhall Firenza. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 Vauxhall Firenza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1972 Vauxhall Firenza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Vauxhall Firenza 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 Vauxhall Firenza. 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 (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Vauxhall Firenza. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Vauxhall Firenza.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 Vauxhall Firenza | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Vauxhall |
| Model | 156 | Firenza |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1256 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2470 mm |
