1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 263 more horse power than 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 338 kg more than 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | AR 51 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1884 cc | 3001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1588 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2730 mm |
