1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 285 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 2008 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 2008 BMW M3. 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 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 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | M3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
