1996 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 1 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 1,712 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 (129 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 50 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (134 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 146 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | boxer |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
