1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1990 BMW M3
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (234 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
Because 1990 BMW M3 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 1990 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1990 BMW M3 (240 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm). This means 1990 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 234 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
