2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire would be higher. At 3,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire. (145 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire weights approximately 193 kg more than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire 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 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire (312 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire has automatic transmission and 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Armstrong Siddeley |
| Model | 156 | Star Sapphire |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1778 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 72 L |
