1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 Jaguar XK
To start off, 2009 Jaguar XK is newer by 11 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 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Jaguar XK (254 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (136 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Jaguar XK weights approximately 372 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 2009 Jaguar XK 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 2009 Jaguar XK. 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, 2009 Jaguar XK (353 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. 2009 Jaguar XK 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. 2009 Jaguar XK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2009 Jaguar XK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Jaguar |
| Model | 156 | XK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1722 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2080 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 71 L |
