2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ would be higher. At 3,177 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ. (208 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ 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 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ. 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ. (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 156 | SZ |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3177 cc | 2957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 72.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
