2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1998 BMW 325
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 325 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 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 405 kg more than 1998 BMW 325.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 1998 BMW 325. 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 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (250 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1998 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
