2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 4 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 10 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2009 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 BMW 120 (351 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 2009 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. 2009 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 4.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 51 L |
