1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1997 BMW 318
To start off, 1997 BMW 318 is newer by 10 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 78 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164.
Because 1997 BMW 318 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 1997 BMW 318. 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 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1997 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 164 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
