2002 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1988 BMW M3
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 147. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 29 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1988 BMW M3 (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 147. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2302 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 58 L |
