1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 Alfa Romeo 147
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 3,178 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147.
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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 156 | 147 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 3178 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
