1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1996 BMW 525
To start off, 1996 BMW 525 is newer by 9 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 24 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 525 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 525. 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, both vehicles can yield 245 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1996 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 164 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
