2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1981 BMW M1
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 M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1981 BMW M1.
Because 1981 BMW M1 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 M1. 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, 1981 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1981 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | M1 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 116 L |
