2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1998 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (150 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 15 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. 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, 1998 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1998 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 320 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
