2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider
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 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 2,385 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (144 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 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 (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 156 | Spider |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
