2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1958 Porsche 356
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1958 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Porsche 356 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 1958 Porsche 356. 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 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1958 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Porsche |
| Model | 156 | 356 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 52 L |
