2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1977 Ford Taunus
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 2,492 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 120 more horse power than 1977 Ford Taunus. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1977 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Ford Taunus 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 1977 Ford Taunus. 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Taunus. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1977 Ford Taunus | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | 156 | Taunus |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1292 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
