2005 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. (256 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2005 BMW M3.
Because 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. (322 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW M3 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | M3 | 159 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 3195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 337 Nm | 322 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
