2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1995 BMW 317
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 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 93 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1995 BMW 317 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 317 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
