1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 15 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), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 2012 BMW 320 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 2012 BMW 320. 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, 2012 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 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 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 320 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| 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 | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |
