2007 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2007 Alfa Romeo 156. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 17 kg more than 2007 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Alfa Romeo 156. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Alfa Romeo 156. 2007 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 51 L |
