2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1986 BMW 325
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 325 (126 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 184 kg more than 1986 BMW 325.
Because 1986 BMW 325 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 1986 BMW 325. 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, 1986 BMW 325 (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1986 BMW 325 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 | 1986 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2693 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
