1990 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Alfa Romeo 33. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Alfa Romeo 33 would be higher. At 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1990 Alfa Romeo 33. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 221 kg more than 1990 Alfa Romeo 33. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Alfa Romeo 33. (148 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Alfa Romeo 33. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Alfa Romeo 33 has manual transmission. 1990 Alfa Romeo 33 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Alfa Romeo 33 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 33 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1712 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 51 L |
