2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 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 125 kg more than 2012 BMW Z4.
Because 2012 BMW Z4 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 2012 BMW Z4. 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2012 BMW Z4 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. 2012 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
