2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1988 BMW 535
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (215 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1988 BMW 535. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 535 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 1988 BMW 535. 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, 1988 BMW 535 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1988 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3177 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 52 L |
