2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1983 BMW 525
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 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 (248 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 525 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1983 BMW 525 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 1983 BMW 525. 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 (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (240 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525. 1983 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1983 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 525 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2691 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
