1990 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159

To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 640 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 316. 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 @ 1500 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
Make BMW Alfa Romeo
Model 316 159
Year Released 1990 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 2387 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 208 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 17.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1720 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4670 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 70 L


 

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