1996 Alfa Romeo GTV vs. 2001 BMW M3
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV, 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 M3 (502 Nm) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV. (275 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV has manual transmission. 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV | 2001 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | GTV | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 502 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
