2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1980 BMW M5
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 M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1980 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 349 kg more than 1980 BMW M5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M5. (304 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 M5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1980 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1391 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
