2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 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 219 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
Because 2001 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 2001 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. 2001 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
