2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1988 TVR Type S
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 TVR Type S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 TVR Type S would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 TVR Type S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1988 TVR Type S. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1988 TVR Type S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1988 TVR Type S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 TVR Type S 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 TVR Type S. 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 TVR Type S. (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 TVR Type S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1988 TVR Type S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | TVR |
| Model | 156 | Type S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 68.5 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 | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2300 mm |
