2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2011 Alpina D3
To start off, 2011 Alpina D3 is newer by 6 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Alpina D3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina D3 (211 HP) has 26 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (185 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina D3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alpina D3 weights approximately 70 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 2011 Alpina D3 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 2011 Alpina D3. 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, 2011 Alpina D3 (450 Nm) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm). This means 2011 Alpina D3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 2011 Alpina D3 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. 2011 Alpina D3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2011 Alpina D3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alpina |
| Model | 156 | D3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 211 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
