2004 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 (306 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1893 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
