2001 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1996 BMW 520
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 520 weights approximately 151 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 1996 BMW 520 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 1996 BMW 520. 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 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1996 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| 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 | 1496 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
