2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (113 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. (64 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 626 kg more than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. 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 (146 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin-Healey |
| Model | 156 | Sprite |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1967 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1340 kg | 714 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 27 L |
