1984 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 BMW 316 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 1984 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316. 1984 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 316 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 316 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1767 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 91 mm |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
