1982 BMW 325 vs. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 BMW 325 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1982 BMW 325. (120 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1982 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1982 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 BMW 325 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 1982 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (306 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 BMW 325. (230 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 BMW 325. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1982 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1982 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 BMW 325 | 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 325 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 189 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
