2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1973 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Pontiac |
| Model | 156 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4092 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2750 mm |
