2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2005 BMW Z4
To start off, 2005 BMW Z4 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW Z4 (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW Z4 weights approximately 60 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 2005 BMW Z4 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 2005 BMW Z4. 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, 2005 BMW Z4 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 2005 BMW Z4 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. 2005 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2005 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
