1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 BMW 118
To start off, 2008 BMW 118 is newer by 11 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 BMW 118. (127 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 155 kg more than 2008 BMW 118. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 118. (180 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2008 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 118 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
