2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1994 BMW 520
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,386 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1994 BMW 520. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 211 kg more than 1994 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 BMW 520 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 1994 BMW 520. 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1994 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1494 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
