1981 BMW 725 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1981 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 725.
Because 1981 BMW 725 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 1981 BMW 725. 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 725 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
Model | 725 | 159 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2387 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 90.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 17.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2710 mm |