1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. (183 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 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 313 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 1996 BMW Z3. 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
Model | Z3 | 159 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2198 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 184 HP | 183 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1615 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |