2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. 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 1990 BMW 316. 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 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| 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 | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
