2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2004 BMW 525
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 525 (193 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 406 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 525 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 2004 BMW 525. 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, 2004 BMW 525 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2004 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 193 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1656 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
