2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1992 BMW 540
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 540 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 1992 BMW 540. 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1992 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 3980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
