2006 BMW 118 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2006 BMW 118 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 118 (127 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 118 weights approximately 635 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 118 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 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 BMW 118 (180 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (134 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 118 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 118 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
