1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2006 BMW 316
To start off, 2006 BMW 316 is newer by 8 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 2,386 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (136 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2006 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 316 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2006 BMW 316 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 2006 BMW 316. 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 (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 316. (176 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2006 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
