1989 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 has manual transmission. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 164 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
