2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1996 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1996 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 318 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 1996 BMW 318. 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1996 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
