2002 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 254 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2700 mm |
