2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 263 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 156 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
