1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 BMW 525
To start off, 2012 BMW 525 is newer by 15 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 525 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2012 BMW 525 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 2012 BMW 525. 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, 2012 BMW 525 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. 2012 BMW 525 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. 2012 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2012 BMW 525 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 525 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 450 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4907 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1462 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2968 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |