1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 BMW 535
To start off, 2009 BMW 535 is newer by 11 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2009 BMW 535 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 2009 BMW 535. 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, 2009 BMW 535 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 535 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 | 2009 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 535 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1746 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4860 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 |
