2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1996 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 1996 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 (385 Nm) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Toyota |
| Model | 156 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 75 L |
