1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 BMW X5
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 6 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (338 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 965 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 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW X5 (400 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. 2003 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 2195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.4 L/100km | 10.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.4 L/100km | 18.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 13.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 93 L |
