1986 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Alfa Romeo 33 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. (116 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Alfa Romeo 33, 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33. (150 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Alfa Romeo 33.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Alfa Romeo 33 | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 33 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1717 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 51 L |
