2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 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 182 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 1997 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 1997 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (265 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 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 1997 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1997 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 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 258 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
