1997 Porsche Boxster vs. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1997 Porsche Boxster is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Porsche Boxster (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1997 Porsche Boxster.
Because 1997 Porsche Boxster 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 Porsche Boxster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Porsche Boxster. (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Porsche Boxster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Porsche Boxster | 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Porsche | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Boxster | 164 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2480 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2670 mm |
