2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 86 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1978 Pontiac Firebird 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 1978 Pontiac Firebird. 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 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
Model | 156 | Firebird |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 5700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 385 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |