2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1972 BMW 520
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 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1972 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 520 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 1972 BMW 520. 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, both vehicles can yield 190 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.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 159 | 520 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 66 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |