2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1979 BMW 728
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 728. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 728 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW 728 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1979 BMW 728. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1979 BMW 728. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1979 BMW 728. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 BMW 728 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 1979 BMW 728. 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 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 BMW 728. (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 BMW 728.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1979 BMW 728 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 728 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
