2008 BMW X3 vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 BMW X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | X3 | 156 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
