I just put up this post on an Alfa Romeo 164 Q4 over at Classic Italian Cars For Sale, and I have to be honest I didn’t even realize this variation existed. Wikipedia had this to say about the all-wheel drive system:
The Q4 four-wheel-drive system (Viscomatic) was co-developed with the Austrian company Steyr-Puch. The system was very advanced when compared to other 4WD systems at that time. The system consisted of a viscous coupling unit, central epicyclic differential and Torsen differential in the rear. The whole system is connected to ABS and Motronic units. The power driven to the rear axle is continuously variable from 0 to 100%, so the car can be fully front- or rear-wheel-drive as conditions require. Torque is distributed between axles depending on the speed, turning radius, engine rpms, throttle position and ABS parametrics. This model was equipped with a Getrag 6-speed manual gearbox.
I’m not sure I’ve ever heard of an AWD system that could go from 0-100% power at either axle?! Not to mention all the other 90’s style and class that this car exudes. I’ve always been a fan of the 164 and known of the QV model, but this package really sounds well done.
I did a little surfing and here are some other pictures from around the web of this very hot car:
I’d have to say that last picture in the black/gray combo (like the car offered above) looks to have aged much better than the red two-tone. Just saying…
dc
via: Forza Forum, AlfaBB, Alfa164Registr.nl
2 replies on “It’s Official: The Alfa Romeo 164 Q4 Is One Sexy 90’s Machine!”
Hi Dan,
I drive a Q4 (311.000 km) and it is really a nice car, to heavy for the track, but an everyday comfort highway cruiser with crazy sound at 5000-7000 revs, 0 -60MPH in 7.5 seconds
Hi Jurgen,
I always think of cars from this era as very light compared to today’s porkers! Regardless, I’ll bet you’re right that it’s a damn fine daily driver — especially if there is highway in your commute.
Thanks for stopping by,
dc