1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 291 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 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 170 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. 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 BMW M3 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 164 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Top Speed | 197 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 5.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
