2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Ferrari F355
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 Ferrari F355. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ferrari F355 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ferrari F355 (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1997 Ferrari F355.
Because 1997 Ferrari F355 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 1997 Ferrari F355. 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 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ferrari F355. (363 Nm). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ferrari F355.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 Ferrari F355 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | 156 | F355 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 294 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2460 mm |
