1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 358 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (294 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 164 | SL |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.5 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.6 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
