2008 BMW 523 vs. 2009 Alfa Romeo Brera
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Brera is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Brera (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Brera should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Brera weights approximately 55 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 2008 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Brera, 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Alfa Romeo Brera has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Alfa Romeo Brera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2009 Alfa Romeo Brera | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 523 | Brera |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
