2008 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146

To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (115 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW X3 1998 Alfa Romeo 146
Make BMW Alfa Romeo
Model X3 146
Year Released 2008 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 1351 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Horse Power 228 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 115 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 89.6 mm 67.2 mm
Top Speed 210 km/hour 179 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 10 seconds 12.8 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1765 kg 1175 kg
Vehicle Length 4580 mm 4260 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2550 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 50 L