2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 BMW 323
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 3,177 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 117 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 1998 BMW 323. 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) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3177 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
