2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 BMW 535
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1996 BMW 535. (235 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1996 BMW 535 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 1996 BMW 535. 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, 1996 BMW 535 (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 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 | 1996 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 243 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 | 1445 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
