2004 BMW 525 vs. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 2004 BMW 525 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 525 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. (175 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 525 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 2004 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 525. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 525. 2004 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 has manual transmission. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 525 | 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 525 | 164 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
