2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1971 BMW 2002
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 2002. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 2002 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1971 BMW 2002. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 2002. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1971 BMW 2002. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 2002 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 1971 BMW 2002. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 2002. (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 2002.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1971 BMW 2002 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 2002 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 46 L |
