2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 BMW 318
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1996 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 318 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1996 BMW 318 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 318. 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1996 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
