2007 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 2007 Alfa Romeo 147. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 223 kg more than 2007 Alfa Romeo 147. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, both vehicles can yield 305 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 85.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1588 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2730 mm |
