2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1986 Alfa Romeo 90
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Alfa Romeo 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1986 Alfa Romeo 90. (130 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1986 Alfa Romeo 90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 312 kg more than 1986 Alfa Romeo 90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 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 1986 Alfa Romeo 90. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 (176 Nm) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm). This means 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 156 | 90 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 66.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
