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 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
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 | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1990 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 66 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 10 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |