2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. 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 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 159 | 318 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 183 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |