2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Fiat Barchetta
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 Fiat Barchetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Fiat Barchetta would be higher. At 3,177 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1998 Fiat Barchetta. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1998 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1998 Fiat Barchetta. 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 @ 4800 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 Fiat Barchetta | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 156 | Barchetta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3177 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2280 mm |
