2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo would be higher. At 4,942 cc (12 cylinders), 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo (653 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 515 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo weights approximately 490 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 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo 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 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo. 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, 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo (815 Nm) has 651 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (164 Nm). This means 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo 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 | 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | 156 | 512 BBi Turbo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1774 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 653 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 815 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 329 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2660 mm |
