2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 BMW 123
To start off, 2012 BMW 123 is newer by 8 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 3,177 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2012 BMW 123. (202 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 123. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 123 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2012 BMW 123 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 2012 BMW 123. 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, 2012 BMW 123 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 123 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 | 2012 BMW 123 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 123 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3177 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 51 L |
