2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2007 BMW 323
To start off, 2007 BMW 323 is newer by 5 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2007 BMW 323. (176 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 323 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2007 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 2007 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 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 323. (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 323. 2007 BMW 323 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. 2007 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2007 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2497 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
