2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1987 BMW 316
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 HP) has 78 more horse power than 1987 BMW 316. (86 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1987 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 BMW 316 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 1987 BMW 316. 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1987 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1571 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 86 HP |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
