1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 SSC Tuatara
To start off, 2012 SSC Tuatara is newer by 15 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 6,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 SSC Tuatara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 SSC Tuatara (1,350 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 1163 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 SSC Tuatara 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 73 kg more than 2012 SSC Tuatara.
Because 2012 SSC Tuatara 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 2012 SSC Tuatara. 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, 2012 SSC Tuatara (1,042 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 820 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 SSC Tuatara 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 | 2012 SSC Tuatara | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | SSC |
| Model | 156 | Tuatara |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 6932 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 1350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 1042 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 2.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1092 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2667 mm |
