2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 52 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 1996 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 1996 BMW M3. 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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (300 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 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 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 85.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1588 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
