1973 BMW 525 vs. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 (185 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1973 BMW 525. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1973 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 525 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 1973 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 525. (208 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 525 | 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 525 | 166 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 69 L |
