2001 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 (150 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 (255 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 156 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
