2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 BMW 530
To start off, 2005 BMW 530 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 530 weights approximately 275 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 530 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, 2005 BMW 530 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, both vehicles can yield 300 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2005 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 10.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
