2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 142 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW M3. 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 (400 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | M3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 3001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1588 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2730 mm |
