1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (104 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 233 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW Z3 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 1997 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (125 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Z3 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1370 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 64.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 51 L |
