1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (192 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 164 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 213 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 72 L |
