2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2003 BMW 318
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 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 84 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 405 kg more than 2003 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 318 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 2003 BMW 318. 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 233 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2003 BMW 318 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 159 | 318 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2386 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |