1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 2003 Oldsmobile Alero

To start off, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero (139 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. (131 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 20 kg more than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero (203 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. (198 Nm). This means 2003 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. 2003 Oldsmobile Alero has automatic transmission and 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 has manual transmission. 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 2003 Oldsmobile Alero
Make Mercedes-Benz Oldsmobile
Model 190 Alero
Year Released 1988 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2294 cc 2196 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 131 HP 139 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 198 Nm 203 Nm
Engine Bore Size 95.3 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80.3 mm 94 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1340 kg 1360 kg
Vehicle Length 4450 mm 4750 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2720 mm