2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 5 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 M3 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 M3. 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 5.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
