2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Bitter Diplomat
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Bitter Diplomat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Bitter Diplomat would be higher. At 5,354 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Bitter Diplomat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Bitter Diplomat (227 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Bitter Diplomat should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Bitter Diplomat weights approximately 340 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Bitter Diplomat 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 1978 Bitter Diplomat. 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, 1978 Bitter Diplomat (419 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (164 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1978 Bitter Diplomat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Bitter Diplomat | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Bitter |
| Model | 156 | Diplomat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1774 cc | 5354 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 419 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2690 mm |
