2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 2011 BMW 520 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 BMW 520. 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 BMW 520 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 2011 BMW 520 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 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2011 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
