2006 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1990 BMW 316

To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 198 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Alfa Romeo 147 1990 BMW 316
Make Alfa Romeo BMW
Model 147 316
Year Released 2006 1990
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1598 cc 1596 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 118 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 146 Nm 141 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1278 kg 1080 kg
Vehicle Length 4230 mm 4330 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 70 L