1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 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 3,221 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (192 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 560 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 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (500 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 has manual transmission. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1987 Alfa Romeo 164 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Alfa Romeo Mercedes-Benz
Model 164 S
Year Released 1987 2002
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2959 cc 3221 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 192 HP 201 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 500 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 88 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72.6 mm 88.3 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 18.0:1
Top Speed 230 km/hour 235 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 7.7 seconds 8.2 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1365 kg 1925 kg
Vehicle Length 4650 mm 5050 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2970 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 88 L