1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2006 BMW 523
To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 19 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 2,497 cc, 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 523 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 523 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 2006 BMW 523. 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 2006 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 164 | 523 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2497 cc |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 197 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
