2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 BMW 530
To start off, 2008 BMW 530 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 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 70 kg more than 2008 BMW 530.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 300 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 10.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
