2009 BMW M3 vs. 1990 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 291 more horse power than 1990 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Alfa Romeo 164.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2009 BMW M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Alfa Romeo 164. (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Alfa Romeo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1990 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | M3 | 164 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.9 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.9 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
