2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1983 BMW 320
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1983 BMW 320. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 342 kg more than 1983 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 320 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 1983 BMW 320. 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, 1983 BMW 320 (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1983 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
