2003 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 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 20 more horse power than 2001 BMW Z3. (227 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. 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 300 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 | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3178 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 51 L |
