1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1988 BMW 316
To start off, 1988 BMW 316 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 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 (192 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164.
Because 1988 BMW 316 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 1988 BMW 316. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1988 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 164 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 15.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
