1996 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo Spider. (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 85 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1997 BMW M3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | Spider | M3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1969 cc | 3201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 236 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |