2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1993 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Toyota MR2 (241 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Toyota MR2 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 1993 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (306 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Toyota MR2. (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1993 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Toyota |
| Model | 156 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 241 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
