2001 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1998 Ferrari F355
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ferrari F355. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ferrari F355 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ferrari F355 (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ferrari F355 weights approximately 24 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Ferrari F355 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 1998 Ferrari F355. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 1998 Ferrari F355 (363 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Ferrari F355 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1998 Ferrari F355 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | 147 | F355 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 82 L |
