2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1951 Austin A
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Austin A would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1951 Austin A. (29 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1951 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 653 kg more than 1951 Austin A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1951 Austin A 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 1951 Austin A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Austin A. (54 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1951 Austin A | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin |
| Model | 156 | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1951 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 803 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 54 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 95 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2030 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 48 L |
