2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2013 BMW M3
To start off, 2013 BMW M3 is newer by 9 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW M3 (408 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW M3 weights approximately 420 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 2013 BMW M3 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 2013 BMW M3. 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, both vehicles can yield 400 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 | 2013 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 408 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 12.0 : 1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4618 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1976 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
