2005 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1996 BMW 523
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 9 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 523 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 1996 BMW 523 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1996 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1908 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
