2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1973 Opel Commodore
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Commodore would be higher. At 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Opel Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1973 Opel Commodore. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1973 Opel Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Opel Commodore 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 1973 Opel Commodore. 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Commodore. (177 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Commodore. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1973 Opel Commodore has manual transmission. 1973 Opel Commodore 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 | 1973 Opel Commodore | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 69.8 mm |
| 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 | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
