2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1974 BMW 518
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 230 kg more than 1974 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 518 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 1974 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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 Spider (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1974 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 518 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
