2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1997 BMW Z3
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 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 312 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 1997 BMW Z3 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 1997 BMW Z3. 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1997 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 3245 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
