Penetration coefficient: Cx 0.305 (Cx 0.300 on S versions)
Effective drag surface: Cx.s 0,61 sq.m.
The harmonious fusion of styling tradition and innovative aerodynamics, realized by Alfa Romeo and Pininfarina, a name which is synonymous with the fascination and style of Italian cars, gives the 164 a modern and elegant look. The design has been developed using the most advanced computerized calculating and drawing techniques, resulting in a streamlined shape at the fore front.
The re-styling of the S version,besides giving the vehicle an exclusive sporting Iine,improves its aerodynamic and road holding characteristics at high speeds.
The excellent aerodynamic characteristics of the 164 are
the result of an accurate computerized analysis and measurement of
the air flow aimed at the optimization of the
angles of inclination and curvature radius. In addition,
simple but effective solutions, like flush door handles and
windows, protected windshield wipers and sealing of the
front section led to the following results:
Penetration coefficient: Cx 0.305 (Cx 0.300 on S versions)
Effective drag surface: Cx.s 0,61 sq.m.
Other solutions like the "side-skirts" resulting from wind tunnel test, drastically reduce the aerodynamic lift and noise,
The front and rear bumpers, incorporating the spoiler and fairing, infold the vehicle and combine high streamlining with modern style concepts.
The bumper exterior surfaces are made of soft polyurethane (R.R.I.M. type - Reinforced Reaction Injection Moulding), and the core is made of low density polyurethane. The use of these materials provides the maximum absorption of energy with the lowest possible distortion and breakage. In fact, the bumpers are capable of absorbing without distortion impacts upto 2.5mph within atemperature range of -30oC to + 100oC (-22oF to + 212oF), as required by the current laws. The bumper-to-body attachment points have been designed to provide additional protection in case of impact.
The hood, of unique design, includes the ram air grid and the Alfa Romeo badge, and provides an aerodynamic fairing for the windshield wipers.
The shape of the rearview mirrors and supports reduces to a minimum the aerodynamic vortexes and noise. The mirror adjustment is power assisted, fast and precise. Electric defogging is provided and actuated together with the rear window defogger.
The stratified and laminated windshield, safe and strong, Is bonded to the body and framed by a nubber seal and metal channel. This design peculiarity offers the maximum air flow continuity, resulting in aerqdynamlc advantages.
The lower side of the windshield includes an electric deicing heating element. This element is energized together with the rear window defogger and is used to free wipers which have frozen to the windshield.
The rear window design and construction are similar to those of the windshield.
An electric resistance provides quick and efficient defogging/de-icing.
The door windows are flush to the vehicle's body to help reduction of adverse aerodynamic effects.
Annoying aerodynamic noise has been minimized by means of seals located behind the headlamps, below the front grid, between the bumpers and the body, and between the doors and the underdoor boards. Excellent soundproofing of the engine hood and of other rotating parts enabled the minimization of the noise in the passenger compartment.
For the American market, light alloy rims of exclusive design are available as an alternative to traditional wheel rims and wheel covers.
A Lifting of rear edge and sliding of inner trim panel backwards to provide quick change of interior air.
B Sliding of the complete sun roof backwards, to increase the air flow in the passenger compart- ment.
The hood release is actuated by a lever in the passenger compartment. Two pneumatic actuators help raise the hood an hold it open; they also help provide for a smooth closure. The trunk lid can be released electrically by means of a switch in the passenger compartment, or manually by means of the relevant key.
A retractable power radio antenna is provided. The antenna extends or retracts when the radio is switched on and off.
The rear spoiler gives the 1648 an actractive sporting image; it improves the vehicle's aerodynamic characteristics, resulting in a better penetration and lower aerodynamic lift, particularly at high speeds.
The rear spoiler consists of a metal frame, lined with soft polyurethane to withstand minor knocks that could damage the paintwork.
The side-skirts and bumper spoilers give the 164 an exclusive sporting touch, and further improve the driving safety and aerodynamic efficiency.