1988 BMW 316 vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159.
Because 1988 BMW 316 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 1988 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW 316 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
Model | 316 | 159 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1859 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 127 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 80 mm |
Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.6 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1555 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |