1974 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. (183 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 182 kg more than 1974 BMW 3.
Because 1974 BMW 3 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 1974 BMW 3. 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
Model | 3 | 159 |
Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2198 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 183 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 94.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1615 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |