2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,858 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 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, both vehicles can yield 190 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1858 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 13.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
