2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1983 BMW 525
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 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,691 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 525 (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 525 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 525 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 525. 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 (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (240 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525. 1983 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1983 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2691 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
