2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1983 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1983 Opel Rekord. (90 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 301 kg more than 1983 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Opel Rekord 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 1983 Opel Rekord. 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, both vehicles can yield 146 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1983 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
