2001 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. Both 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 and 1990 BMW 316 are equipped with a 1,596 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 (113 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
