2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 426 kg more than 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider 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 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. 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) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider. (121 Nm). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Alfa Romeo Spider | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 156 | Spider |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1289 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 | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 67.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 984 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2260 mm |
