Review: Alfa Romeo 164 (1989-92)

Review: Alfa Romeo 164 (1989-92)

Overview

Released in Australia in February 1989, the Alfa Romeo 164 was a mid-size, front-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Milan, Italy, the 164 was powered by a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine that was mated to a four-speed ZF automatic transmission. In 1991, the 164 range was expanded with Scala, Luxury and QV variants, the latter powered by a more powerful 3.0-litre engine that was mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

V6 Engine

For the standard 164, the transversely-mounted 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine had an aluminium block and cylinder head, Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection, a single overhead camshaft per cylinder, two valves per cylinder and a compression 9.5:1. For the 164 QV, however, a revised tune, engine mapping, camshafts and increased compression ratio (10.0:1) contributed to a higher power output.

Body and dimensions

Styled by Enrico Fumia of Pininfarina, the 164 was 4554 mm long, 1760 mm wide, 1390 mm tall and had a 2660 mm long wheelbase; its drag coefficient was 0.30 Cd. Although the 164 was underpinned by the ‘Type Four’ floor plan which was shared with the Fiat Croma, Lancia Thema and Saab 9000, the 164 bodyshell utilised finite element analysis (computer aided design) and high-strength steel to achieve a relatively high degree of torsional rigidity.

Suspension

Despite its ‘Type Four’ origins, the 164 also had unique front suspension with MacPherson struts and lower control arms. Furthermore, the rear suspension consisted of MacPherson struts with double transverse links and trailing arms. For the 164 Luxury Package and 164 QV, the rear suspension also included a hydraulic self-levelling function.

July 1990 update (MQ90 models)

In July 1990, a series of production changes were introduced for the Alfa Romeo 164. Significantly,

• the front subframe was lowered so that the engine and transmission were 75 mm lower and the driveshaft could run in a straight line from the gearbox to the wheels. This change was made to improve stability and the suspension was revised for reduced torque steer; and,
• a fully galvanized steel body was introduced (previously partially galvanized).

Visually, these updated models could be identified by their revised front bumpers which had two additional bars next to the fog lights and rear window antennae. Inside, the switchgear was also revised.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the 164 was limited to ABS.

Features

Standard features for the 164 included 15-inch alloy wheels with 205/55 VR15 tyres, a radio and cassette player, air conditioning, three-way power adjustable front seats, central locking, a rake and reach adjustable steering wheel, a power adjustable driver’s side mirror, power windows and tinted windows.

When launched in 1989, the 164 was specified with a Luxury Package as standard which also included leather seat trim, climate control air conditioning, a power sunroof and metallic paint finishes. From 1991, however, the Luxury Package became optional and the starting price for the 164 was reduced.

164 QV

Released in May 1991, the QV (short for Quadrifoglio Verde) variant had a more powerful 3.0-litre V6 engine and could be identified by its extended front spoiler, deeper side skirts and rear apron. The QV also had lowered sports suspension and a limited slip differential.

Inside, the QV had similar features to the Luxury Package but was distinguished by its sculpted front sports seats.

164 Scala

The 164 Scala was released in May 1991 as an entry-level variant. Compared to the standard features listed above, the 164 Scala omitted self-leveling suspension, alloy wheels and power adjustable front seats.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Alfa Romeo 164