2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1988 BMW 524
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (198 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 1988 BMW 524. 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1988 BMW 524 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 524 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
