2005 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1989 BMW Z1
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1989 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1989 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 BMW Z1 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 1989 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW Z1. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1989 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
