1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2001 BMW 740
To start off, 2001 BMW 740 is newer by 4 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 4,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 740 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 740 weights approximately 432 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 2001 BMW 740 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 740. 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, 2001 BMW 740 (410 Nm) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (169 Nm). This means 2001 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2001 BMW 740 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. 2001 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2001 BMW 740 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 740 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1782 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2830 mm |
