2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 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 225 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. 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) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
