2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 225 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
