2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1986 BMW 730
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 730 (197 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 730 weights approximately 335 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 1986 BMW 730 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 1986 BMW 730. 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, 1986 BMW 730 (275 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1986 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1986 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2800 mm |
