2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1997 BMW M3
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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 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 435 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. 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 (400 Nm) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1997 BMW M3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | Spider | M3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 3201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 236 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |