2008 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Fiat Barchetta

To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Fiat Barchetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Fiat Barchetta would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 325 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 2008 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Fiat Barchetta, 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 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. 2008 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 1997 Fiat Barchetta has manual transmission. 1997 Fiat Barchetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 325 1997 Fiat Barchetta
Make BMW Fiat
Model 325 Barchetta
Year Released 2008 1997
Body Type Station Wagon Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1747 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 215 HP 129 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 164 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.8 mm 83.1 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1500 kg 1060 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 3920 mm
Vehicle Width 1420 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1820 mm 1270 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2280 mm