2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1995 BMW Z3
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1995 BMW Z3. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1995 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW Z3 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 1995 BMW Z3. 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 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW Z3. (179 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1995 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
