2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 BMW 520
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 420 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 2003 BMW 520. 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, 2003 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 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 | 2003 BMW 520 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 520 |
Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1969 cc | 2170 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1670 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |