Italy vs Japan — 1997 vs 1992
| 156 GTA V6 3.2 | Lancer Evolution Evolution I CD9A | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 247 hp |
| Torque | 221 lb-ft | 228 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,179 cc | 1,997 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.3 sec | 5.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 143 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.7 sec | 13.9 sec |
| Weight | 3,109 lbs | 2,579 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,595 mm | 2,500 mm |
| Length | 4,430 mm | 4,310 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 5,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 9/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 GTA V6 3.2 brings higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1992 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Evolution I CD9A answers with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Italy and Japan automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 GTA V6 3.2 versus 1992 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Evolution I CD9A is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 GTA V6 3.2 producing 250 hp and the 1992 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Evolution I CD9A delivering 247 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alfa Romeo 156 uses a V6 DOHC displacing 3,179 cc, while the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16-valve turbo (4G63T) with 1,997 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1992 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Evolution I CD9A edges ahead at 5.3 seconds versus 6.3 seconds. The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 530 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1992 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Evolution I CD9A commands a significant premium over the 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 GTA V6 3.2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1992 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Evolution I CD9A rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.