2009 BMW 550 vs. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 4,798 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 550 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 2009 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2009 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 550 | 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
Model | 550 | 156 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4798 cc | 2491 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 362 HP | 187 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 490 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2600 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |