The suspension used MacPherson struts all
round, although at the rear it was modified with twin parallel transverse
bars. A self-levelling system was available as an option on some models.
Speed sensitive power assisted steering was standard, although ABS was
only an option at the beginning. Otherwise the equipment was befitting
of the top-of-the-range model that it was, and such options as split, electrically
adjusting rear seats were available on some models. More normal items such
as air-conditioning, electrically adjustable mirrors and seats and electric
windows were standard or optional depending on the model. The interior was
available in conventional upholstery or leather. An automatic transmission was also available with the V6 engine.
In 1991 several modifications were introduced, resulting in what was generally recognised as a new range. The differences were details, but numerous and significant.
The electrical system benefitted from new connectors, new electric window switches, new wiper controls and repositioned switches on the dash. In terms of
drivability, the steering system was modified to reduce torque-steer through the wheel and to speed up centering after cornering and the brakes were modified to
eliminate squeal. Comfort was improved through a more efficient climate control system thanks to a new radiator and alternator as well as repositioned air vents on the
dashboard and new seat materials. Lastly, the body became fully galvanised.
Late 1992 saw the V6 gain an extra 12 valves and two camshafts. The new 3.0i V6 24v produced 211bhp or 232bhp in the sportier Quadrifoglio version. A year
later Alfa Romeo introduced a four-wheel drive version, the Q4. Fitted with a new six-speed gearbox and
an electronically controlled viscous coupling with variable torque splitting, this was the ultimate 164 in terms of drivability. Leather seats and sideskirts
were standard.
Production ceased in June 1997.
One of the most interesting examples of
the Alfa 164 to be produced was the Pro-Car
prototype. There was also the Proteo
concept car based on the Alfa 164.
Total production of the 164 was as follows :
Released at the Frankfurt Motorshow in 1987, the Alfa 164 was designed in conjuction with Saab (the 9000), Fiat
(the Croma) and Lancia (the Thema),
and continued Alfa Romeo's move towards front wheel drive. The Pininfarina
styled body (design
sketches and various
models) had a Cd of 0.30 (wind-tunnel
pictures) whilst power came from a 1962cc twin spark engine (148bhp),
a 2959c V6 (192bhp) and a 2500cc diesel turbo (117bhp). The 2-litre later became available with a catalytic converter and was known (in Italy) as the Europa.
in 1988, the 2.0i turbo was launched. Using a 1995cc turbocharged engine (175bhp) developed from the Lancia Thema engine, this propelled the 164 to 100km/h in
just 7.2 seconds and on to 223km/h. It was recognizable by the small supplementary air intakes next to the (standard) foglights. ABS was standard on this version.
1990 saw a series of versions developed specifically for the US market, the 3.0i V6 cat, cat L and cat S. These all used the 2959cc engine, all with catalytic
converters and with 179, 179 and 197bhp respectively.
1991 also saw a new sporty version, the 2.0i V6 turbo, introduced. This was a development of the 3-litre engine, fitted with a single Garrett turbocharger and
intercooler. the 207bhp produced was sufficient to push the 164 to 100km/h in just 7.7 seconds.
| 2 litre versions : | 158,057 |
| 3 litre versions : | 69,748 |
| diesel versions : | 45,602 |
(total 273,857 cars)
Technical Details
| Driveline | transverse engine at front with front wheel drive or permanent four-wheel drive |
| Suspension | front : MacPherson strut with telescopic dampers and coil springs
rear : strut with telescopic dampers and coil springs optional controlled damping system wheelbase : 2660mm track (front / rear) : 1515mm / 1488mm |
| Brakes | front : ventilated discs (diameter : TS 257mm, others 284mm)
rear : discs (diameter : 251mm) rear load proportioning valve handbrake operating on the rear via cable dual hydraulic circuit with servo assistance ABS optional |
| Gearbox | 5 speed manual with rod linkage
4 speed automatic |
| Steering | Rack and pinion with power assistance |
| Engines | click here for details |
| Kerb weight | 2.0 TS : 1200kg
2.0 TB : 1250kg 2.5 TD : 1320kg 3.0 V6 : 1300kg |
Click
here for a cutaway picture of a 164
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 |
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Performance
| model | max speed | 0-62mph | standing km | braking from 100km/h |
| 3.0 V6 (12V) | 235 km/h | 7.6 sec | 28.1 sec | 43.6 m |
| 2.0 TS (1987) | 212 km/h | 9.5 sec | 30.5 sec | 45.3 m |
Tuning
The brakes can be improved by the use of a higher specification fluid, fitting drilled
and grooved discs, using a superior pad compound and fitting stainless
steel braided flexible hoses.
Dampers and springs are readily available
for the 164 which will improve the handling, and a strut brace can be fitted
at the front to increase the stiffness of the bodyshell. The rubber bushes can also be replaced by
items made from less compliant material.
Easily
carried out modifications include installation of a free-flow air filter
(a cold air duct is also a worthy mod) and fitment of a less restrictive
exhaust system to improve the driveability, 'Chips' are also available
which (claim to) increase the power, driveability and torque all at the same time.
Buying / Selling
The 3000 V6 is a beautiful piece of engineering,
and this model has to be the most desireable, especially in 230bhp form.
The Cloverleaf model holds it's value well since it is almost a collectors
car, and the numbers produced were quite small.
Some tips to do before selling :
(they may seem obvious, but most people don't do them and thus are in a
weaker bargaining position)
Tidy inside the car thoroughly : hoover
the floor, empty all pockets, ashtrays (wash), glove compartment etc...,
wipe the trim with a If the car has been standing give it a
good run - this will clear out the engine (reduce exhaust smoke), put a
shine on the brake discs and loosen up any joints that may otherwise make some noises.
Jetwash under the car, especially under
the engine and in the wheelarches. The prospective buyer may be an enthusiast,
and this makes it easier for them to see what they want to check.
Even if you don't have a service history,
try to find any receipts, especially for the last timing belt change.
Obviously wash the car and clean the windows !
If you are going to buy a car always check the following :
Check the main electrical functions - wipers,
windows, lights, etc... try putting the main beam and wipers on at the
same time. Check the headlights for cracks and make sure that the air-conditioning unit works.
Check the brake pedal does not go to the
floor if pressed hard for a long time and if possible check the brake discs
for wear (through the wheels). Check the gearchange for clean engagement,
the gear linkage can become sloppy when worn, but these can be replaced.
The automatic gearbox is also one of the weaker points of the car (where fitted).
The engine should be run up to temperature, check the exhaust for smoke (especially
on turbocharged models), the condition of the breather (look for mayonnaise),
the condition of the oil filler cap (again white deposits can indicate head
gasket or other serious problems) and the colour of the coolant (preferably
not thick or dark brown!). Listen to the noise of the engine, then depress
Try to find out when the timing belts were
last changed. If not recently then have them changed - the official interval is 36,000 miles.
Check tyre wear, uneven patterns could imply a bent chassis.
Always take it for a test drive. Check
that the car tracks in a straight line with no steering input and also
remains straight under braking. Find a large open area and complete several
lock to lock turns (also in reverse), listening for any noises. Try the
handbrake when moving - seized rear callipers will mean uneven braking or no braking.
damp
cloth, give the cockpit a good airing to get rid of any odours ! Reset
the trip meter to 00000 - it is a pleasant (subconcious) surprise.
Firstly check the bodywork. Check that
there are no mismatching panels, large areas of discolouration or signs
of fresh paint (compare inside the engine bay with the external body colour),
all of which probably indicate accident damage.
the clutch and engage first gear. Whatever noise has disappeared was coming
form the gearbox, what remains is from the engine. Also check the condition
of the engine oil on the dipstick.The lighter brown the better, if it is thick black then leave quickly.
Links
A site with lots of Alfa Romeo 164 links.
An Alfa 164 Register website.
A Dutch Alfa 164 website.
There is also a list of all our picture galleries (including museums,
motorshows and various events).
Wallpapers/Desktop Backgrounds of numerous Alfa Romeo's also available to download.
There are also various statistics regarding production and sales.
For books on Alfa Romeo see our Online Bookstore
164 comment form
Your Comments
I purchased a 1990 5 speed
base model as a 1999 Christmas present to myself and enjoy it greatly.
This is my third Alfa and fourth in the family so I know the need for TLC
to keep in good relations with the car. Forums such as this are great ways
to share information and, most importantly, maintenance tips. So far I
am delighted with the car as I believe I lucked out and got a well tended
one but only time will tell for sure-meantime its just pure fun. Told the
selling dealer that it was the first time coming down the 18th that I WAS
MORE EXCITED WITH THE LOOMING OPPORTUNITY TO DRIVE THE CAR THAN HIT MY
NEXT SHOT(caps by accident but OK). (Glenn B., USA)
As a replacement car while
my MAserati Ghibli was being serviced this summer I was given a 1991 Alfa
164 V6 turbo (it was the only car available). Initially I sneered, but
as I made my way onto the highway I started appreciating the delicious
Alfa V6, quite different from the aggressive Maserati V6 but equally appealing
I live in Canada and Alfa's
are extremely difficult to find. My father purchased one 3 years ago, a
1991 164 and i believe there are only two of them in our city. Once he
bought a 2000 Jetta the 164 has basically become my summer car. It is wonderful,
a pleasure to drive. The gears are getting loose as the years go by, but
the car has still got kick and a lot of it too. Expenses are pricey as
parts are hard to come by in North America but we haven't run into
many problems as we only drive it 3 months out of the year. All around
awesome car as it is unique ...wouldn't change it with anything else. (Giulia, Canada)
I have an Alfa 164 3.0 24v(1995)
It's a fantastic car I have ever had. It's never have any serious problem.
It's sends clear message to the drive what driver need to. It fast(252km/hr),
beautiful engine sound, but thirsty(4~6km/liter). I never want to replace
this car until I can alfa provide new beautiful big car with soul( better
with RWD). I will keep this car for classic.(Tony, Taiwan)
Hi, I have a 1991 164 2.0L T-Spark.
I thought the cornering left a little to be desired. I discovered Eibach made lowered and progressive springs for the car, so bought a set and had them fitted.
The car now corners much better, and the total cost of the operation was around £300. Quiet a reasonable outlay for a large improvement. (Kevin, UK)
I have just bought myself
an Alfa 164 1990. It has had one previous owner. An old man and an
enthusiast. The car is great. I compare it to my five cylinder Audi and wonder
what I have been doing all this year. (Joe, Sweden)
My dad owns a 1990 164 3.0 V6 manual. Its quite rare here in Malaysia.Its such a fantastic car that still looks great today.Its always a pleasure to drive it.
I would not want any other executive car.This is the best. (Joshua P, Malaysia)
The 164 has always been 'the car' that I wanted to owned, and now its mine. Its something different from the mass produced cars and the
design is timeless being from Pininfarina. Handling wise is excellent. I felt like driving a sport car (but in reality its a 4 door sedan). I have not found
anything else that can replace it at the moment. Its unique! (Suaz, Malaysia)
I live in Bristol, U.K. I
am currently on my 4th 164 (I've had a '89 V6 Lusso, a '91 Twinspark and
am currently on my 2nd '93 24V Super).
PROS: glorious V6 (12v torquier
until about 3500 rpm than 24v), fast, comfortable, well-equipped, don't rust, stylish, rare.
CONS:
torque-steer (later versions are better), confusing switch-gear (later
versions slightly better), parts prices, minor electrical gremlins, 24
mpg, aircon not very efficient when idling.
TO BUY: Check all usual
things - smoke on start-up, panel alignment, water in oil, cam-belt changes
(expensive to do but financially crippling if ignored!), history more
important than mileage. Rust never a problem (apart from minor trim bits,
e.g. rear door window 'divider', wing mirrors).
Interior trim squeaks a
bit, but seems to hold together well. High engine temperatures (100+) on
24valve normal when idling or in town (but should be 70ish on a run). Check all
electrical toys thoroughly - e.g. sunroofs can get stuck open (but can
be closed manually), seats sometimes dodgy too, central locking, aircon
(e.g. pipes under bonnet should get freezing cold). Prices are cheap compared
to, say, BMWs (yeuch), although Cloverleafs rather dearer. Cloverleafs
had 200 bhp as opposed to 192 - (12valve) 230 bhp v 210 (24valve); leather
trim, electronic suspension, body-kit, only in red, white or black (12v,
not sure about 24v). N.B. Cloverleaf is NOT 4-wheel drive, although there
was a 4wd model - very rare and left-hand-drive only. (Simon N., UK)
and refined. And the performance was still awesome, allowing me to cruise
all day at 190-200 Km/h easily keeping up with much more modern executive
cars. Despite its age, most of the 164's electrical gizmos still worked
properly (including air con and the headlight wipers!), with the exception
of the driver's seat height switch. The bodywork was perfect as well, and
the leather interior was ok for its age. All considered, this 164 seems
to have withstood its 9 years almost as well as a BMW 5-series of similar
vintage. I am thinking of buying a V6 turbo as a second car now, considering
how cheap they are in Italy (2000/2500 UK pounds will get you a pristine
1993 164 V6 turbo). Andy
I recently purchased my 2nd Alfa 164, I owned a 1989 3.0 V6 and
now i bought a 1991 3.0 V6 QV. This is really a fantastic car, i needed to
change the clutch plates because they were worn out but the rest of the car
is in very good condition. A few minor details occured. As usual the rear
window slit rust and the seat hight ajustment (electrical) doesn't work. But
for the rest i just love the car. It's very fast and drives super
comfortably. You just keep buying this model. Even when you know it's not
economic to drive.. (Bart V, The Netherlands)
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