2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1984 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1984 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1984 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1984 Pontiac Firebird 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 1984 Pontiac Firebird. 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Pontiac Firebird. (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1984 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
| Model | 156 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
