1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 BMW 2002
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 2002. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 2002 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW 2002 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (152 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1972 BMW 2002. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 2002. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1972 BMW 2002. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 2002 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 1972 BMW 2002. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 2002. (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 2002.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 BMW 2002 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 2002 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 46 L |
