2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1990 BMW 518
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,387 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 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1990 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 518 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 1990 BMW 518. 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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1990 BMW 518 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 518 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1794 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 218 Nm | 161 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 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 | 80 L |