2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1991 BMW M12 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 1991 BMW M12. 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | M12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| 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 Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2610 mm |
