2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 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 148 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 410 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. 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 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 316 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
