2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2001 BMW Compact
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Compact. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Compact would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2001 BMW Compact. (193 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW Compact. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Compact weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166.
Because 2001 BMW Compact 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 2001 BMW Compact. 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Compact. (237 Nm). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Compact. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW Compact has manual transmission. 2001 BMW Compact 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 | 2001 BMW Compact | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | Compact |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 193 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 63 L |
