1998 BMW M vs. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1998 BMW M is newer by 10 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M 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 40 kg more than 1998 BMW M.
Because 1998 BMW M 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 1998 BMW M. 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, 1998 BMW M (340 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW M | 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | M | 164 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
