2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Acura EL
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura EL would be higher. At 2,387 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 46 more horse power than 1997 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 431 kg more than 1997 Acura EL. 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 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 Acura EL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Acura |
| Model | 156 | EL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2619 mm |
