1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi (340 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi weights approximately 4 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi 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 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi (451 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ferrari |
| Model | 166 | 512 BBi |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4942 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 340 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 451 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1499 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 120 L |
