1990 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1990 Alfa Romeo 33 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1990 Alfa Romeo 33. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1990 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 705 kg more than 1990 Alfa Romeo 33. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Alfa Romeo 33, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Alfa Romeo 33. (136 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Alfa Romeo 33.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Alfa Romeo 33 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 33 | S |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2870 mm |
