2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 18 kg more than 2011 Lexus IS.
Because 2011 Lexus IS 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 2011 Lexus IS. 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, 2011 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lexus |
| Model | 156 | IS |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
