2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (162 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2008 BMW Z4. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1310 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
