2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Jaguar XK
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 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,994 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Jaguar XK (290 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jaguar XK weights approximately 392 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 Jaguar XK 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 Jaguar XK. 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, 1997 Jaguar XK (393 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 1997 Jaguar XK has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Jaguar XK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 Jaguar XK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Jaguar |
| Model | 156 | XK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1308 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 75 L |
