2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 BMW 725
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1981 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 725.
Because 1981 BMW 725 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 1981 BMW 725. 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 BMW 725 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 725 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 71.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2810 mm |
