2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1988 Aston Martin Virage
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Aston Martin Virage. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Aston Martin Virage would be higher. At 5,338 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Aston Martin Virage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Aston Martin Virage (344 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Aston Martin Virage should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Aston Martin Virage weights approximately 670 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Aston Martin Virage 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 1988 Aston Martin Virage. 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, 1988 Aston Martin Virage (450 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Aston Martin Virage 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 | 1988 Aston Martin Virage | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Aston Martin |
| Model | 156 | Virage |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 5338 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 344 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1920 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 105 L |
