1987 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 1987 Alfa Romeo 33 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 33. (79 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 464 kg more than 1987 Alfa Romeo 33. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo 33. (113 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Alfa Romeo 33.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Alfa Romeo 33 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 33 | 3 |
Year Released | 1987 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1351 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 113 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 67.2 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1374 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |