2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 120 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2008 BMW 120. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 192 kg more than 2008 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 120 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 2008 BMW 120. 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, 2008 BMW 120 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2008 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2008 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Spider | 120 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
