1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 Audi A8
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 3,123 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (256 HP) has 104 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (152 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 355 kg more than 2009 Audi A8.
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, 2009 Audi A8 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2009 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Audi |
| Model | 156 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 3123 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 256 HP |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
