2002 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1983 BMW 525
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,691 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 525 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1983 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 1983 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 1983 BMW 525 (240 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider. 1983 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1983 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 525 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2691 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
