2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1988 BMW 316
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1988 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1988 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 15.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
