2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2008 BMW 120
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2008 BMW 120. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 265 kg more than 2008 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 120 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 2008 BMW 120. 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 120. 2008 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 2008 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 50 L |
