1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2004 BMW 118
To start off, 2004 BMW 118 is newer by 7 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 1,971 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2004 BMW 118. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 118.
Because 2004 BMW 118 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 2004 BMW 118. 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, 2004 BMW 118 (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2004 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 118 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
