1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2008 BMW Z4. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 75 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4. 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 Z4 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1310 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
