2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1996 BMW 545
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 545. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 545 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 545 (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 545 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 155 kg more than 1996 BMW 545.
Because 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 545. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 BMW 545 (440 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (323 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 545 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 | 1996 BMW 545 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 545 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
