1996 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2003 Acura RSX
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura RSX weights approximately 47 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Acura RSX (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (134 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. 2003 Acura RSX has automatic transmission and 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2003 Acura RSX | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Acura |
| Model | 146 | RSX |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1222 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
