2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1999 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1999 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1999 TVR Chimaera 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 1999 TVR Chimaera. 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, 1999 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 TVR Chimaera 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 | 1999 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | TVR |
| Model | 156 | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 3946 cc |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1025 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
