2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Honda NSX
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 Honda NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda NSX would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda NSX (290 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda NSX weights approximately 113 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 1997 Honda NSX 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 Honda NSX. 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 @ 2000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda NSX. (304 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda NSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 Honda NSX | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Honda |
| Model | 156 | NSX |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 270 km/hour |
| 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 | 1498 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
