2005 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2006 BMW 523
To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider (247 HP) has 72 more horse power than 2006 BMW 523. (175 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 523.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 523. 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 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2006 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 523 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
