2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 BMW X3

To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 280 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 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Alfa Romeo 156 2008 BMW X3
Make Alfa Romeo BMW
Model 156 X3
Year Released 2003 2008
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2387 cc 2492 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 174 HP 189 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 385 Nm 245 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90.4 mm 75 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 18.5:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.3 seconds 9.6 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1460 kg 1740 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4870 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2800 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 6.6 L/100km 12.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 67 L


 

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