1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 Lexus LS
To start off, 2012 Lexus LS is newer by 14 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus LS (380 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus LS weights approximately 743 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 2012 Lexus LS 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 Lexus LS. 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, 2012 Lexus LS (497 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. 2012 Lexus LS 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. 2012 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2012 Lexus LS | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lexus |
| Model | 156 | LS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1746 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 380 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 497 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1973 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1875 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2969 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 84 L |
