1990 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1990 Alfa Romeo 164. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 129 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 (264 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 164 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1429 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
