2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1976 Ferrari 512 BB
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ferrari 512 BB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ferrari 512 BB would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1976 Ferrari 512 BB is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ferrari 512 BB (355 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ferrari 512 BB should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1976 Ferrari 512 BB.
Because 1976 Ferrari 512 BB 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 1976 Ferrari 512 BB. 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, 1976 Ferrari 512 BB (460 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1976 Ferrari 512 BB will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1976 Ferrari 512 BB | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | 156 | 512 BB |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 4942 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 277 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 110 L |
