1996 Alfa Romeo 155 vs. 2009 BMW 550
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 155. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 155 would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 155. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 155. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo 155. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 550 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 2009 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 155, 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, 2009 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 155. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 155.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Alfa Romeo 155 | 2009 BMW 550 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 155 | 550 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 360 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 489 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 88.3 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1730 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1470 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |