1957 Alpine A 108 vs. 1998 BMW Z3
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Alpine A 108. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Alpine A 108 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP) has 191 more horse power than 1957 Alpine A 108. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1957 Alpine A 108. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 845 kg more than 1957 Alpine A 108. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Alpine A 108. (68 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Alpine A 108.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Alpine A 108 | 1998 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Alpine | BMW |
| Model | A 108 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 904 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 240 HP |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2450 mm |
