1978 BMW 320 vs. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (248 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1978 BMW 320.
Because 1978 BMW 320 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 1978 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 320 | 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 320 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2600 mm |
