1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2010 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2010 Alfa Romeo 159. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (320 Nm). This means 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
Model | Z3 | 159 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2387 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |