1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 1999 BMW Z3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 BMW Z3. 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, 1999 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm). This means 1999 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | Z3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7400 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 320 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2450 mm |