2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 265 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 Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Z4 | 156 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
