Basic Information Identification Make: Alfa Romeo Model: 164 Year: 1996 Body Styles Covered: All styles Codes Chassis Code: Type 164 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Essential guide for Alfa Romeo 164...
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as per manual recommendation)
Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Standard:
Manual Transmission (likely 5-speed)
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
Automatic Transmission (likely 4-speed, e.g., ZF 4HP-18 or similar)
Features
Drive Layout:
Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Dimensions
Exterior
Body Style:
4-door Sedan
Wheelbase Mm:
Approx. 2700 mm
Length Mm:
Approx. 4700 mm
Width Mm:
Approx. 1760 mm
Height Mm:
Approx. 1420 mm
Weights
Curb Weight Kg Estimated:
Approx. 1450-1550 kg (depending on engine and equipment)
Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data Availability:
Limited modern comprehensive crash test data available for this era of vehicle from official sources.
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Power Steering
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), seatbelts with pretensioners, crumple zones.
Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Typically an analog/digital radio, cassette player, and potentially a CD player (optional). Basic climate controls.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). Limited to no other advanced driver assistance systems common today.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
None (No Bluetooth, USB, or integrated smartphone connectivity)
Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, as specified in the manual.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for the Busso V6 engine; typically every 3-5 years or 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on usage and belt age/condition. **This is a critical interval for this engine to prevent catastrophic failure.**
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic or high-quality semi-synthetic 10W-40 or 5W-40 (refer to manual for exact specification and API/ACEA ratings)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based, typically blue or green antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. (Refer to manual for specific Alfa Romeo recommended coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 (refer to manual)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification)
Known Issues
Common Issue 1:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced at intervals) leading to catastrophic engine damage.
Common Issue 2:
Electrical gremlins and sensor issues, common in many Italian cars of this era.
Common Issue 3:
Rust and corrosion, especially in wheel arches, sills, and subframes, depending on climate.
Common Issue 4:
Suspension wear (bushings, ball joints) and potential HVAC system leaks/component failures.
Filter Part Numbers Example
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter W920/3, Mahle OC51, Purflux LS210 (Actual numbers may vary by VIN and specific engine option - consult manual or parts catalog)
Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Ethos:
Alfa Romeo is renowned for its sporting heritage, passionate design, and engaging driving dynamics.
Model Evolution
164 Introduction:
The 164 was introduced in 1987 as the successor to the Alfa Romeo Alfa 6 and was the first front-wheel-drive Alfa Romeo developed under Fiat ownership. It was part of the 'Tipo 4' project with Fiat Croma, Lancia Thema, and Saab 9000. The 1996 model represents a later iteration with potential styling and mechanical updates.
Production
Production Years:
1987-1998
Manufacturing Location:
Italy (Arese Plant)
Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Journalism Awards:
While specific awards for the 1996 model might not be widely documented, the 164 range was generally well-received for its styling and performance, particularly the V6 variants, often praised by automotive critics of the era.