2008 BMW 320 vs. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2008 BMW 320.
Because 2008 BMW 320 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 2008 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 has manual transmission. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 320 | 164 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 213 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
