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 2,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (90 HP @ 6000 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 315 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 (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (115 Nm @ 4400 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 | 2490 cc | 1351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 67.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 12.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 50 L |
