2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 BMW 628
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 628. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 628 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 628 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1981 BMW 628. (181 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 628. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 628 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1981 BMW 628 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 1981 BMW 628. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1981 BMW 628 (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 628 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 BMW 628 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 628 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
