2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2003 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2003 BMW 320. (142 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2003 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 BMW 320 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 320 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 | 2003 BMW 320 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 159 | 320 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1858 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 142 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |