2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 Fiat 124
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 464 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Fiat 124 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 Fiat 124. 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 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 156 | 124 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 79.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
