1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 BMW 530
To start off, 2012 BMW 530 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 530 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (103 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2012 BMW 530 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 530. 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 530 (540 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (256 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. 2012 BMW 530 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 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2012 BMW 530 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 530 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 103 HP | 256 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 256 Nm | 540 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
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 |