1986 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (207 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1986 BMW M3. (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1986 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (401 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | M3 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
