2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1992 BMW 538
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 538. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 538 would be higher. At 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW 538 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 538 (341 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 538 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 538 weights approximately 305 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 BMW 538. 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, 1992 BMW 538 (400 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 538 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 | 1992 BMW 538 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 538 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 341 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
