2009 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1995 BMW S3
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo 147. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 415 kg more than 2009 Alfa Romeo 147. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW S3 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 1995 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 (305 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1995 BMW S3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2770 mm |
