1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 25 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (192 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 245 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 2012 BMW Z4 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 2012 BMW Z4. 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. 2012 BMW Z4 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. 2012 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 164 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
