2001 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1988 BMW 525
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 525 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 1988 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1988 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
