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Alfa Romeo 164: The Iconic Executive Saloon That Redefined Luxury and Performance.
The Alfa Romeo 164 is a four-door executive saloon that epitomized Italian design and engineering excellence during its production from 1987 to 1998. Designed by the renowned Pininfarina design house, the 164 succeeded the Alfa 90 and the luxurious Alfa 6, offering a modern, stylish, and performance-driven alternative in the executive car segment. With a total production of 273,857 units, the 164 left a lasting legacy before being succeeded by the Alfa Romeo 166 in 1998. The Alfa 164 was a product of collaboration and innovation. In October 1978, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Lancia, and Saab joined forces to develop executive saloons using the shared Type Four platform. This partnership allowed each brand to create a unique offering while reducing development costs. For Alfa Romeo, this effort culminated in the 164, which was designed to compete with the Ford Granada, Opel Rekord (Vauxhall Carlton), and premium rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The project began under the codename Project 156 and transitioned into Project 164 by 1981. The design of the 164 was crafted by Enrico Fumia of Pininfarina, featuring a sleek wedge shape and an impressive drag coefficient of Cd=0.30. This aerodynamic design not only enhanced the car’s visual appeal but also influenced the future styling of the Alfa Romeo range, including the redesigned 33 in 1990 and the Alfa 155. Unveiled at the 1987 Frankfurt Motor Show, the 164 was the final model developed while Alfa Romeo was still an independent company. Its official launch followed shortly after Fiat’s acquisition of Alfa Romeo, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the brand. Despite this transition, the 164 retained its distinct Alfa Romeo DNA, offering dynamic performance, luxurious interiors, and cutting-edge technology for its time. The Alfa Romeo 164 set a benchmark for executive saloons with its refined handling, powerful engine options, and striking design. It catered to drivers seeking a combination of performance and sophistication, making it a standout choice in the competitive executive car market. Even today, the 164 is celebrated for its timeless design and its role in shaping the brand’s modern identity.
The story of Pininfarina and Alfa Romeo is one of mutual admiration and a shared passion for innovation in automotive design that spans nearly eighty years. This remarkable partnership, which began in the early 1930s, reflects a continuous journey of creativity, prestige, and performance that has defined both brands.
Discover the fascinating journey of Pininfarina, a name synonymous with luxury automotive design and innovation. From its inception in 1930 to its status as a leader in the industry, this article explores the milestones, iconic vehicles, and visionary designers who shaped the brand’s legacy. Delve into the evolution of Pininfarina, highlighting notable achievements such as the Ferrari 550 Barchetta, the Cambiano concept, and the introduction of Automobili Pininfarina. Join us as we celebrate the artistry and engineering excellence that has defined Pininfarina through the decades.
