2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 BMW X3
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 345 kg more than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 156. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
