2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1986 Subaru 1.8
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru 1.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru 1.8 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Subaru 1.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1986 Subaru 1.8. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru 1.8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1986 Subaru 1.8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Subaru 1.8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru 1.8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1986 Subaru 1.8 (197 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1986 Subaru 1.8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1986 Subaru 1.8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Subaru |
| Model | 156 | 1.8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 7.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2470 mm |
