2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 7 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 130 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 2009 BMW 523 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 2009 BMW 523. 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2009 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
