2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2001 BMW Compact
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Compact. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Compact would be higher. At 2,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Compact is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Compact (193 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Compact should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Compact weights approximately 190 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 2001 BMW Compact 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 2001 BMW Compact. 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, 2001 BMW Compact (237 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm). This means 2001 BMW Compact 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 | 2001 BMW Compact | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | Compact |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 193 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
