2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2009 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2009 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 320 kg more than 2009 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 523. 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2009 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
