2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2006 BMW Z4
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2006 BMW Z4. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 201 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW Z4 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 2006 BMW Z4. 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2006 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
