2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 BMW 2.8
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 2.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 2.8 would be higher. At 3,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 2.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1974 BMW 2.8. (187 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 2.8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1974 BMW 2.8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 2.8 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 1974 BMW 2.8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1974 BMW 2.8 (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 2.8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 BMW 2.8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 2.8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2800 mm |
