2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 Nissan 370Z
To start off, 2012 Nissan 370Z is newer by 9 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan 370Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan 370Z (350 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan 370Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan 370Z weights approximately 73 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 2012 Nissan 370Z 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 2012 Nissan 370Z. 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, 2012 Nissan 370Z (374 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (306 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan 370Z 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 | 2012 Nissan 370Z | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Nissan |
| Model | 156 | 370Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 374 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1503 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4404 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1844 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1316 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 72 L |
