1985 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Alfa Romeo 147
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 (148 HP) has 62 more horse power than 1985 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1985 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 BMW 316 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 1985 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 316 | 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 316 | 147 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
