1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1955 Ford 12 M
To start off, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (185 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1955 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1955 Ford 12 M.
Because 1955 Ford 12 M 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 1955 Ford 12 M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164, 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. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 has automatic transmission and 1955 Ford 12 M has manual transmission. 1955 Ford 12 M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1955 Ford 12 M | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | 164 | 12 M |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2500 mm |
