1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Holden Commodore (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (136 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Holden Commodore weights approximately 260 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Holden Commodore 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 1997 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, both vehicles can yield 304 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:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Holden |
| Model | 156 | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2950 mm |
