2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 254 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2700 mm |
