2007 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2007 BMW 318 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 318 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 318 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 2007 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 2007 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 318 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 318 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
