1989 Alfa Romeo RZ vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ weights approximately 285 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ 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 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 RZ (244 Nm) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm). This means 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ has manual transmission. 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RZ | A |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 80 HP |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2430 mm |
