2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1999 BMW 323
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 31 kg more than 1999 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 323 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 1999 BMW 323. 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 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323. 1999 BMW 323 has automatic transmission and 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1999 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
