2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2000 BMW Z9
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW Z9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 BMW Z9 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z9 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z9 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z9 weights approximately 346 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 2000 BMW Z9 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 2000 BMW Z9. 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, 2000 BMW Z9 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z9 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 | 2000 BMW Z9 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | Z9 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1686 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2960 mm |
