2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1995 BMW S3
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW S3 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 1995 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 1995 BMW S3 (260 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. (230 Nm). This means 1995 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1995 BMW S3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | S3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2770 mm |
