2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1988 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1988 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 1988 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1988 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
| Model | 156 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 2827 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
