1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 17 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2004 BMW 318.
Because 2004 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 2004 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 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 2004 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 has manual transmission. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 164 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
