2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 (149 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1996 Toyota MR2 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 1996 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 (181 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Toyota |
| Model | 156 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 75 L |
