2004 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1990 BMW M3
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (234 HP) has 86 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 1990 BMW M3 (240 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. (181 Nm). This means 1990 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 234 HP |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 247 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2570 mm |
