2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 159 | 3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3195 cc | 3003 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 256 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 322 Nm | 272 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 1270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |