2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1980 BMW M5
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1980 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 39 kg more than 1980 BMW M5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 BMW M5 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 1980 BMW M5. 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 (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M5. (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M5.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1980 BMW M5 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | M5 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3177 cc | 3453 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 218 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 304 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 93.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1391 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |