2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1977 BMW 520
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,969 cc, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 BMW 520 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1977 BMW 520 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 1977 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1977 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1977 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1951 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1565 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
