1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 BMW Z4
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 12 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 165 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 5.7 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 | 1230 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
