2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1995 BMW S3
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW S3 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 1995 BMW S3. 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW S3 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 | 1995 BMW S3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2770 mm |
