2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 850 would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 660 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 850 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 1997 BMW 850. 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (206 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2690 mm |
