1995 BMW 317 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 2,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. 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 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 317 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 68.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2600 mm |
