1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 205 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 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (406 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | Spider | Z4 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 406 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1590 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4239 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1791 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2497 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |