2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1999 BMW 323
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1999 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 323 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 1999 BMW 323. 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, 1999 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 323 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 | 1999 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
