2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1981 BMW 725
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1981 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 725.
Because 1981 BMW 725 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 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1981 BMW 725 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | 725 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 71.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2810 mm |
