2005 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1976 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 35 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 166.
Because 1976 Ford Thunderbird 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 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166, 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 Ford Thunderbird (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 166. (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1976 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | 166 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 317 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
