2003 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 2008 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 318 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 2008 BMW 318. 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 200 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. 2008 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 | 2008 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
