2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Ferrari F355
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ferrari F355. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ferrari F355 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ferrari F355 (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ferrari F355 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Ferrari F355 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 1998 Ferrari F355. 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, 1998 Ferrari F355 (363 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1998 Ferrari F355 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 | 1998 Ferrari F355 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | 156 | F355 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.1:1 |
| 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 | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 82 L |
