1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 Fiat 500
To start off, 2009 Fiat 500 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2009 Fiat 500. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2009 Fiat 500. 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, both vehicles can yield 145 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2009 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 156 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 4.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 35 L |
