2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1988 BMW M3
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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 1988 BMW M3. 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, 1988 BMW M3 (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 159 | M3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1908 cc | 2303 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6750 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1510 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2690 mm |