1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1988 Ford RS 200
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford RS 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford RS 200 would be higher. At 1,969 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford RS 200 (247 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (152 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford RS 200 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford RS 200 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ford RS 200 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 1988 Ford RS 200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1988 Ford RS 200 (292 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford RS 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1988 Ford RS 200 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | 156 | RS 200 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1804 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 116 L |
