1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 (155 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 166. (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 230 | 166 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 155 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 72 L |
