2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 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 7 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 12 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2003 BMW M3 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 2003 BMW M3. 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 @ 4800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | M3 |
Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3177 cc | 2993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 85.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1442 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |