2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1992 BMW 316
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1992 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1992 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 316 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 1992 BMW 316. 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 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1992 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
