2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 313 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2003 BMW M3 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 2003 BMW M3. 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 159 | M3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 85.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1442 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |