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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 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 100 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 @ 2000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). 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 | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 385 Nm | 254 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.1:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4720 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2700 mm |