2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1988 BMW 525
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525.
Because 1988 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 1988 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1988 BMW 525 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 525 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2443 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 174 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 385 Nm | 226 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1460 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |