2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Jaguar XK8
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jaguar XK8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jaguar XK8 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Jaguar XK8 (290 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (149 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1997 Jaguar XK8 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 1997 Jaguar XK8. 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, 1997 Jaguar XK8 (393 Nm) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (181 Nm). This means 1997 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. 1997 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Jaguar XK8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 Jaguar XK8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Jaguar |
| Model | 156 | XK8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2590 mm |
