1996 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 368 kg more than 1996 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 1996 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 (322 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
Model | M3 | 159 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3195 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 256 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 322 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.3:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1848 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |