Looking at buying a 164

Gosh, there is a lot of discussion implied with your question. Much of it has already been discussed so I suggest you spend some search time on this forum to research what others have said about the differences between the 1991-93 and the 1994-95 models. Both have their strong and weak points and it may come down to buying the best car you can afford within each model as historical maintenance records are paramount. After all, these are all 12+ year old cars.

Also, do you intend to do your own maintenance? What is your level of mechanical experience? Parts availability can be a problem. I have found that Jason at Alfaissimo is a great source for to find parts, as well as De Fatta brothers. Many of the parts for the 1994+ models are unique and some traditional Afla parts providers do not stock the parts of the car that are not shared with the 1991 - 93 models. Are you looking at a specific car?

Good luck with your decision.

Jeff
Dallas, Texas

1994 164 LS

bmwmandan2002 said:

i can do alot of my own maintence, i had a couple MK3 (86-92) supras that i completley tore down and rebuilt, also i did alot of shade tree mechanic stuff to my 01 bmw 325i, the specific car im looking at is: http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/car/413707452.html i would like a Q if i can find it, also I'm fairly resourceful for parts, i want to do alot of the various euro things to it, just keep it as clean as possible, right now im thinking the proj headlamps, the GTA wheels, Eibach spings and koni struts, dunno where to look for exhaust and engine tuning, also, does zender still stock those body kits? i was looking at making an E34 alpina replica for a long time but i think this might be more fun, and italian, cant go wrong there...

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Most of those Items are still available but with an LS you get less of that sporty look.
Eibach springs are NA along with anything Zender. I just sold the last Zender Siena Wheels 2 months ago.
Same as the E34 (great car btw) no kits in replica form. I think the stock kit is the best anyway!
GTA wheels are on there way out as well.

There is plenty that could be done to these. I have chips and exhaust but the only factory fit is ANSA, REMUS just Disc. their line of 164 stuff about 4 months ago.
I offer B+G springs which are better than Eibach IMO. Not such a drastic drop on the car which is not good for that low oil pan and ride.

I carry all EURO upgrades and can get used Euro parts as well to make it even more euro.
You can do tails as well, side repeaters etc... Hard to remove side markers without new bumpers.
You cannot go too far with the Euro thing as Alfa actually made USA and EURO wire harnesses, so it is tough to do things like change the cluster to KM.
I have several cars that I am selling for a friend in very good condition.
2> 164 (1991 B and 1993 L) 12V, and 1 LS with 30K on it.

Both models are great! I would say that the 12V has more parts available than the 24V. For example 24V compressor is N/A although I do have a new source for them which is nice, compressor or clutch and pulley alone.

12V inner door handles not available for at least 7-9 years. Some interior is going fast.

LS: all front chrome trim is N/A.

I pretty much have anything for these and lost of used parts from Europe on hand!

So you pretty good with both.
I cannot say which one I like best. 24V has a lot of potential but so does the 12V. 24v is way more complicated and parts are a bit more pricey! 24V has better braking, more refined and solid, great power in both models. 12V lacks in the brakes department unless you upgrade some items, still great power and both are super fast, stay away from auto's.
Too much info really, you have to see what you want? Q is great! If you can find one, an S is a good sub for older same look model but totally different interior and motor.

Anyways. Good luck with the search and hopefully you will be apart of the growing family here. Some of us have been here for 7-8 years now. Close nit community!

Jason