2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1993 BMW 518
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1993 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1993 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 445 kg more than 1993 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 BMW 518 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 1993 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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 Spider (231 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1993 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 518 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2770 mm |
