2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1981 BMW 520
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 520 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 1981 BMW 520. 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1981 BMW 520 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 159 | 520 |
Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 66 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |