1998 BMW 317 vs. 2010 Alfa Romeo 147
To start off, 2010 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Alfa Romeo 147 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2010 Alfa Romeo 147.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 1998 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 2010 Alfa Romeo 147 (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2010 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2010 Alfa Romeo 147 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 317 | 147 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2550 mm |
