2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 6 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (162 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 240 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 2009 BMW M3 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 2009 BMW M3. 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 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 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
