2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 BMW Z4. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 425 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW Z4 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 2006 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Z4 | 159 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
