2009 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1998 BMW 325
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 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 325 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo 147. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 36 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 1998 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 1998 BMW 325. 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 (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1998 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
