2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1955 Austin-Healey 100
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Austin-Healey 100 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 1955 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin-Healey |
| Model | 156 | 100 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2660 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 109 L |
