1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2003 BMW X3
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (226 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (275 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 226 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 67 L |
