2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1998 BMW 320
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 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1998 BMW 320.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. 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 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1998 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
