2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1983 BMW 323
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1983 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 258 kg more than 1983 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 323 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 1983 BMW 323. 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 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1983 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2315 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1127 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.3 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.8 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
