2005 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1998 BMW 323
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 192 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 1998 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider (265 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1998 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2957 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
