1974 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 217 kg more than 1974 BMW 3.
Because 1974 BMW 3 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 1974 BMW 3. 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (281 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 has automatic transmission and 1974 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1974 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
Model | 3 | 159 |
Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1910 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90.4 mm |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 11.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1650 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |