2003 BMW Z8 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW Z8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW Z8 would be higher. At 4,939 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW Z8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW Z8 (400 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. (256 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2003 BMW Z8.
Because 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW Z8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2003 BMW Z8 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW Z8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW Z8 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Z8 | 159 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4939 cc | 3195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 322 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.5 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 70 L |
