2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 155
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 155.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 156 | 155 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 75.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
