1971 BMW 2002 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 2002. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 2002 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1971 BMW 2002. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 2002.
Because 1971 BMW 2002 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 1971 BMW 2002. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 2002. (197 Nm). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 2002.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 2002 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 2002 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
