2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1989 BMW 518
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 334 kg more than 1989 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 BMW 518 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 1989 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1989 BMW 518 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | Spider | 518 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1766 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 237 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1494 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2770 mm |