2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1988 BMW 316
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 350 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159.
Because 1988 BMW 316 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 316. 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 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1988 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 15.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
