2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 BMW X3
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 535 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 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2003 BMW X3 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. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
