2009 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (247 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2002 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 M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | M3 | 156 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
