2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 Volkswagen SP2
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 Volkswagen SP2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen SP2 would be higher. At 1,677 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volkswagen SP2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (119 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen SP2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 Volkswagen SP2 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | SP2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1677 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
