2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1996 BMW 523
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 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 67 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 51 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 523. 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1996 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 523 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| 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 | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
