2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1999 BMW 320
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 320 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 89 more horse power than 1999 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 74 kg more than 1999 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 320 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 1999 BMW 320. 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 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1999 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 320 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 66 mm |
| 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
