1997 BMW S3 vs. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. (149 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 168 kg more than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW S3 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 S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. (186 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | S3 | 164 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
