1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2009 Alpina B5
To start off, 2009 Alpina B5 is newer by 22 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 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Alpina B5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B5 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 370 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B5 weights approximately 320 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 2009 Alpina B5 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 2009 Alpina B5. 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, 2009 Alpina B5 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 406 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. 2009 Alpina B5 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. 2009 Alpina B5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 2009 Alpina B5 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alpina |
| Model | 164 | B5 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 300 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
