2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 282 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 1972 BMW 3 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
