2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1990 BMW Z1
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1990 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1990 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW Z1 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 1990 BMW Z1. 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1990 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
