2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1999 Lotus M250
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lotus M250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lotus M250 would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lotus M250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus M250 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus M250 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 560 kg more than 1999 Lotus M250.
Because 1999 Lotus M250 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 1999 Lotus M250. 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lotus M250. (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lotus M250.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1999 Lotus M250 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 156 | M250 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1180 mm |
