2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1999 BMW 540
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 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 277 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 540 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 540. 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, 1999 BMW 540 (439 Nm) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. (300 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1999 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 540 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 439 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 1771 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 |
