2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1995 BMW 317
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,908 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 215 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. 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, 1995 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1995 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1995 BMW 317 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 317 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1908 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 55 L |
