1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2007 BMW 550
To start off, 2007 BMW 550 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 550 weights approximately 165 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 2007 BMW 550 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 2007 BMW 550. 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, 2007 BMW 550 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 550 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 | 2007 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 491 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 70 L |
