2006 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1990 BMW 518
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 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,909 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1990 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 518 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 518. 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 (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 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 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1990 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
