2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1987 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,177 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1987 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1987 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1987 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 1987 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 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Pontiac Firebird. (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1987 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
| Model | 156 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3177 cc | 2825 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
