2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1996 BMW Z3
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 Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. 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 (206 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
