1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 120 kg more than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164, 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, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
Model | S | 164 |
Year Released | 1978 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 157 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 294 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 22.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 70 L |