2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 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 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2002 BMW Z3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. 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 (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z3. (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z3. 2002 BMW Z3 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. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1400 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 51 L |
