2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1971 BMW 3

To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Alfa Romeo 159 1971 BMW 3
Make Alfa Romeo BMW
Model 159 3
Year Released 2008 1971
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2387 cc 2986 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 254 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 17.0:1 9.1:1
Top Speed 228 km/hour 204 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.4 seconds 8.5 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1710 kg 1380 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2700 mm


 

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