2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 11 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1972 BMW 520 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 1972 BMW 520. 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 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
