2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 BMW 325
To start off, 2005 BMW 325 is newer by 3 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 325 weights approximately 29 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 2005 BMW 325 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 2005 BMW 325. 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 @ 1800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 325. 2005 BMW 325 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. 2005 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2005 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
