1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 Subaru B
To start off, 2003 Subaru B 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Subaru B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru B (389 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (136 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru B should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru B weights approximately 230 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 2003 Subaru B is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru B will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru B (550 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. 2003 Subaru B has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Subaru B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 Subaru B | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Subaru |
| Model | 156 | B |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2680 mm |
