2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1972 TVR 1600

To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 TVR 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 TVR 1600 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1972 TVR 1600. (84 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1972 TVR 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 654 kg more than 1972 TVR 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 TVR 1600 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 1972 TVR 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166, 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 166 (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 TVR 1600. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 TVR 1600. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1972 TVR 1600 has manual transmission. 1972 TVR 1600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Alfa Romeo 166 1972 TVR 1600
Make Alfa Romeo TVR
Model 166 1600
Year Released 2003 1972
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2959 cc 1599 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 217 HP 84 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 265 Nm 125 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 81.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72.6 mm 77.6 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1550 kg 896 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1200 mm
Wheelbase Size 2600 mm 2290 mm