1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 BMW 330
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 10 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (136 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 175 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 2008 BMW 330 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 2008 BMW 330. 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 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 330. (300 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 330.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
