1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (102 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 156 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (125 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 146 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1370 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.9 mm | 68.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 63 L |
