2003 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1998 BMW 320
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,178 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 1998 BMW 320. 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1998 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3178 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 246 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
