2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1995 BMW S3
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1995 BMW S3.
Because 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW S3. 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) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1995 BMW S3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
