2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1987 Ferrari 208
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ferrari 208 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ferrari 208 (254 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1987 Ferrari 208.
Because 1987 Ferrari 208 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 1987 Ferrari 208. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1987 Ferrari 208 (328 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1987 Ferrari 208 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1987 Ferrari 208 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | 156 | 208 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 328 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 66.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 71 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 | 1490 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 120 L |
