2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1990 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (234 HP) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (217 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
Because 1990 BMW M3 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 1990 BMW M3. 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (265 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW M3. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW M3 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 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 234 HP |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 247 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
