2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 2,492 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
