1999 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2003 Audi S3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi S3 weights approximately 73 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 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 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Audi |
| Model | 156 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
