2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1975 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 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 133 more horse power than 1975 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 553 kg more than 1975 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 1975 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 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 520. (172 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1975 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
