1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 420 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 2011 BMW Z4 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 2011 BMW Z4. 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. 2011 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 146 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.6 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.3 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
