2003 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1974 BMW 518
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1974 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 518 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 1974 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, both vehicles can yield 146 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1974 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
