2008 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (119 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 1972 BMW 3 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1972 BMW 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
