2011 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 365 kg more than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 550 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 2012 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2012 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 379 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
