2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1999 BMW Z8
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW Z8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW Z8 would be higher. At 4,939 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z8 (400 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z8 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 20 kg more than 1999 BMW Z8.
Because 1999 BMW Z8 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 1999 BMW Z8. 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, 1999 BMW Z8 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW Z8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1999 BMW Z8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | Z8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1858 cc | 4939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 14.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 73 L |
