2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. (185 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
Because 2009 BMW Z4 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 Z4. 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. (259 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Z4 | 164 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2959 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 259 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
