2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1976 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Sunbird would be higher. At 4,143 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1976 Holden Sunbird. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1976 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 276 kg more than 1976 Holden Sunbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Holden Sunbird 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 1976 Holden Sunbird. 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, 1976 Holden Sunbird (325 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 1976 Holden Sunbird has automatic transmission and 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Holden Sunbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1976 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Holden |
| Model | 156 | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 4143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2590 mm |
