1996 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 2008 BMW 550
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 550 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 2008 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145, 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, 2008 BMW 550 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Alfa Romeo 145 | 2008 BMW 550 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 145 | 550 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 362 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 491 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1660 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1490 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2890 mm |