2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1986 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1986 Opel Rekord. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1986 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 34 kg more than 1986 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Opel Rekord 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 1986 Opel Rekord. 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, 1986 Opel Rekord (182 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (164 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1986 Opel Rekord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 1986 Opel Rekord 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. 1986 Opel Rekord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1986 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1774 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 77.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1306 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
