2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (201 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 176 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 3 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2620 mm |
