2006 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1998 BMW 323
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 8 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 68 kg more than 1998 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166, 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 166 (385 Nm) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1998 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
