2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 5 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 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 301 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2008 BMW 540 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 2008 BMW 540. 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, 2008 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 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 | 2008 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 4398 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
