1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 11 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 3,248 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (103 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 215 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 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (256 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 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 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
