2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 BMW 120
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 3 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2008 BMW 120. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 120 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2008 BMW 120 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 2008 BMW 120. 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, 2008 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 2008 BMW 120 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. 2008 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1995 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1275 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
