2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Lada 1200
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 Lada 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lada 1200 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1974 Lada 1200. (61 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Lada 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 514 kg more than 1974 Lada 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Lada 1200 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 Lada 1200. 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lada 1200. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lada 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Lada 1200 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lada |
| Model | 156 | 1200 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 61 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 46 L |
