1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (195 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (150 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (358 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 300 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 358 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 50 L |
