2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1980 BMW 628
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 628. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 628 would be higher. At 2,787 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW 628 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1980 BMW 628. (181 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW 628. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1980 BMW 628. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 BMW 628 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 1980 BMW 628. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 628. (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 628.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1980 BMW 628 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 628 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2787 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
