1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1988 BMW 316
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (226 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166.
Because 1988 BMW 316 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 316. 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (275 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1988 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 226 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 15.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
