1991 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1988 BMW Z1
To start off, 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 (207 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1988 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1988 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW Z1 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 1988 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 (289 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1988 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 164 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.2 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2450 mm |
