2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 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 3,248 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 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 65 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4. 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW Z4 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 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 3248 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 | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 55 L |
