2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1989 BMW Z1
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1989 BMW Z1.
Because 1989 BMW Z1 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 1989 BMW Z1. 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, 1989 BMW Z1 (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1989 BMW Z1 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 | 1989 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2450 mm |
