1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1998 BMW 320
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (150 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 275 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 1998 BMW 320 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 320. 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, 1998 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1998 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 146 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 72 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 63 L |
