2008 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1997 Ferrari F355
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ferrari F355. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ferrari F355 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ferrari F355 (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ferrari F355 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ferrari F355 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 Ferrari F355. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147, 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 Ferrari F355 (363 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (305 Nm). This means 1997 Ferrari F355 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1997 Ferrari F355 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | 147 | F355 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 294 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2460 mm |
