2004 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW M3 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 2004 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. (149 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | M3 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
