2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 6 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 55 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 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. 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 (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4. 2008 BMW Z4 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. 2008 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
