2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1999 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 7 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 35 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 TVR Chimaera 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 590 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, 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, 1999 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 TVR Chimaera 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 | 1999 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | TVR |
| Model | 156 | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
