2009 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1998 BMW 317
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2009 Alfa Romeo 147.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 1998 BMW 317. 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 (276 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1998 BMW 317 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | 317 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 276 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2730 mm |
