1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 BMW 520
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 2003 BMW 520. 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (255 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 BMW 520 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 520 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2170 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |