2002 Acura NSX vs. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156

To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Acura NSX would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura NSX (249 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (172 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura NSX weights approximately 45 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 Acura NSX 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 2002 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura NSX. (285 Nm @ 5300 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura NSX. 2002 Acura NSX has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura NSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Acura NSX 2003 Alfa Romeo 156
Make Acura Alfa Romeo
Model NSX 156
Year Released 2002 2003
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2977 cc 2492 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 249 HP 172 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 385 Nm
Torque RPM 5300 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1430 kg 1385 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1180 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2540 mm 2600 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 63 L