1983 BMW 525 vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 (136 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1983 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 525 | 166 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 72 L |
