2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 TVR Speed 12
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 TVR Speed 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 TVR Speed 12 would be higher. At 7,730 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 TVR Speed 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 TVR Speed 12 (800 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 637 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 TVR Speed 12 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 283 kg more than 1997 TVR Speed 12.
Because 1997 TVR Speed 12 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 1997 TVR Speed 12. 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, 1997 TVR Speed 12 (881 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 675 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 TVR Speed 12 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 | 1997 TVR Speed 12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | TVR |
| Model | 156 | Speed 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 7730 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 800 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 881 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 337 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1002 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2650 mm |
