1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 vs. 2000 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. (58 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2000 Alfa Romeo 146.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 (260 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. (126 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 | 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 220 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 19.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 28.1 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
