2001 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2001 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 M3 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 M3. 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. (304 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
