2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1990 BMW 850
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 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1990 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 850 (297 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 850 weights approximately 475 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 1990 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 1990 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, 1990 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 1990 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. 1990 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1990 BMW 850 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 850 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 297 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 450 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2690 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |