1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1999 BMW V12

To start off, 1999 BMW V12 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 5,990 cc (12 cylinders), 1999 BMW V12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW V12 (550 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 395 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW V12 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW V12 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 BMW V12 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 1999 BMW V12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1999 BMW V12 (909 Nm) has 722 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (187 Nm). This means 1999 BMW V12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 1999 BMW V12 has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW V12 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Alfa Romeo Spider 1999 BMW V12
Make Alfa Romeo BMW
Model Spider V12
Year Released 1997 1999
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1970 cc 5990 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 155 HP 550 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 7400 RPM
Torque 187 Nm 909 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 1 seats
Vehicle Weight 1370 kg 1630 kg
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2890 mm