2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1992 BMW 540
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 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 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 105 kg more than 1992 BMW 540.
Because 1992 BMW 540 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 540. 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 400 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 | 1992 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 3980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
