2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1989 BMW 850
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1989 BMW 850.
Because 1989 BMW 850 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 1989 BMW 850. 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 1989 BMW 850 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. 1989 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1989 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
