2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2003 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (257 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 20 kg more than 2003 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 2003 BMW 520. 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 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2003 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 520 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 2170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.5 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
