2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (306 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 306 Nm | 255 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2670 mm |