1997 Alfa Romeo 155 vs. 2002 Audi S3
To start off, 2002 Audi S3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi S3 weights approximately 153 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 | 2002 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Audi |
| Model | 155 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
