2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1995 BMW 317
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 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 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 317 weights approximately 17 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. 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, 1995 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1995 BMW 317 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 | 1995 BMW 317 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 317 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
