2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 118 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 1996 BMW M3. 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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (289 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 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 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | Spider | M3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3001 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 236 HP | 326 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 289 Nm | 305 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 86.2 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 85.9 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1588 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |