2005 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 16 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 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. (175 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 440 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 2005 BMW M3 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 2005 BMW M3. 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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. (265 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW M3 | 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | M3 | 164 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 337 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
