2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1987 BMW 324
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 324 would be higher. At 2,492 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 76 more horse power than 1987 BMW 324. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1987 BMW 324. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 BMW 324 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 1987 BMW 324. 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 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 324. (214 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 324.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1987 BMW 324 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 324 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2443 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.5 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.5 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
