1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 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 2,492 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 35 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 BMW 120 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 BMW 120. 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 2009 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 164 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
