2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2004 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2004 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 295 kg more than 2004 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 320 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 2004 BMW 320. 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 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2004 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 320 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
