2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 BMW 325
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 4 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 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 327 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 45 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 2008 BMW 325 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 2008 BMW 325. 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 325. 2008 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
