2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 Acura RL
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Acura RL weights approximately 150 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Acura RL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. 1996 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1996 Acura RL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Acura |
| Model | 156 | RL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
