2001 BMW M3 vs. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 13 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), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. (175 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW M3 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 2001 BMW M3. 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, 2001 BMW M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | M3 | 164 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
