2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2005 Porsche Boxster is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,687 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Porsche Boxster (225 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Porsche Boxster 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 60 kg more than 2005 Porsche Boxster.
Because 2005 Porsche Boxster 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 2005 Porsche Boxster. 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, 2005 Porsche Boxster (260 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Porsche Boxster 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 | 2005 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Porsche |
| Model | 156 | Boxster |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2360 mm |
