2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1976 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,774 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Sunbeam Alpine 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 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. 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 (164 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. 1976 Sunbeam Alpine has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Sunbeam Alpine will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1976 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Sunbeam |
| Model | 156 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Size | 1774 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2510 mm |
