1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (260 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 146 | 3 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 260 Nm | 255 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1245 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2670 mm |