2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 85 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.
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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider 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 | 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 156 | Spider |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1746 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
