2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1986 BMW 316
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP) has 72 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1986 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 316 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 1986 BMW 316. 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 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1986 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1573 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 86 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
