1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 BMW 523
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 523. 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, 2008 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 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 | 2008 BMW 523 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 523 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2491 cc | 2497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |