2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass
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 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 125 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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, 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass (380 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 156 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3177 cc | 5735 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 103.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 85.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2960 mm |
