2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166
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 166. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 would be higher. At 2,492 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 30 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. (155 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
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 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 156 | 166 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 91 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 72 L |
