2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2006 BMW 120
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 120 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2006 BMW 120. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 120 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 159.
Because 2006 BMW 120 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 2006 BMW 120. 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 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2006 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 8.7 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 | 1615 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
