2009 BMW 116 vs. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 2009 BMW 116 is newer by 20 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 1,962 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2009 BMW 116. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 116. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 116 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164.
Because 2009 BMW 116 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 2009 BMW 116. 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 (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 116. (150 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 116.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 116 | 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 116 | 164 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
