Alfa Romeo GTV

vs

BMW M Roadster

Italy vs Germany — 1995 vs 1998

Alfa Romeo GTV (1995)
BMW M Roadster (1998)
Specifications
GTV V6 3.0 24V CupM Roadster S54
Horsepower220 hp315 hp
Torque199 lb-ft258 lb-ft
Engine Size2,959 cc3,246 cc
0-60 mph6.7 sec4.9 sec
Top Speed149 mph155 mph
¼ Mile15.1 sec13.4 sec
Weight3,021 lbs3,086 lbs
Wheelbase2,540 mm2,446 mm
Length4,285 mm4,025 mm
Units Produced6,291
Original MSRP$32,000$42,370
Value (Excellent)$28,000$65,000
Collectibility5/107/10
Rarity5/106/10
The Verdict

The 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1995 Alfa Romeo GTV V6 3.0 24V Cup counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

Putting the 1995 Alfa Romeo GTV V6 3.0 24V Cup against the 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Italy versus Germany. The 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 315 hp compared to 220 hp, a 95-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alfa Romeo GTV uses a V6 DOHC displacing 2,959 cc, while the BMW M Roadster relies on a Inline-6 DOHC 24V with 3,246 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 edges ahead at 4.9 seconds versus 6.7 seconds. On the collector market, the 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 commands a significant premium over the 1995 Alfa Romeo GTV V6 3.0 24V Cup, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.