2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Porsche 911
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 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Porsche 911 (424 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 286 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Porsche 911 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 135 kg more than 1997 Porsche 911.
Because 1997 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911. 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 Porsche 911 (530 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (306 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Porsche |
| Model | 156 | 911 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 424 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 335 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 | 1430 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2280 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 79 L |
