2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 9 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 282 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 665 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 2012 BMW 550 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 2012 BMW 550. 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, 2012 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 463 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 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 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 550 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4899 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1464 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2968 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 6.5 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 11.5 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |