1997 BMW 850 vs. 2010 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 850 would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2010 Alfa Romeo 159. (256 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2010 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 97 kg more than 2010 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Alfa Romeo 159. (322 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Alfa Romeo 159. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 850 | 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 850 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5379 cc | 3195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 322 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2710 mm |
