2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1973 BMW 3.3
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 3,295 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3.3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3.3. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3.3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 3.3 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 1973 BMW 3.3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3.3. (289 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3.3. 1973 BMW 3.3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 BMW 3.3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1973 BMW 3.3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 3.3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 3295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 289 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 95 L |
