2001 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 2008 BMW 550
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. (104 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 464 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 2008 BMW 550 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 2008 BMW 550. 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, 2008 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. (140 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 | 2008 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 489 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
