2001 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1999 Lexus IS
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus IS weights approximately 50 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Lexus IS 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 1999 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 (304 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1999 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lexus |
| Model | 156 | IS |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
