1998 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 (185 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 318 | 166 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.1 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.2 L/100km | 17.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 69 L |
