1988 BMW 535 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 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (211 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. (207 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1988 BMW 535.
Because 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 535. 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 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (306 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 535 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
