2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 BMW 550
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 315 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 2008 BMW 550 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 550. 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 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 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 | 2008 BMW 550 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 550 |
Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 360 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 489 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1730 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4860 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |