2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1997 BMW 316
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 105 kg more than 1997 BMW 316.
Because 1997 BMW 316 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 1997 BMW 316. 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (270 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1997 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 316 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
