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 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 106 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 360 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 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 520. 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 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.6 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
