1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 18 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
Model | Z3 | 156 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2491 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 184 HP | 187 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2600 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 63 L |