2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2006 BMW Z4
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2006 BMW Z4. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW Z4 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 2006 BMW Z4. 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 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4. 2006 BMW Z4 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. 2006 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2006 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 72 mm |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 7.7 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 | 1490 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
