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 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (256 HP @ 6200 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 420 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159.
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 | 3195 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 259 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.6 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
