2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,458 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3458 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2670 mm |
