2009 Alfa Romeo GTV vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo GTV is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo GTV. (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo GTV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo GTV weights approximately 145 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1997 BMW M3 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo GTV, 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo GTV. (206 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo GTV.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo GTV | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | GTV | M3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
