1996 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 would be higher. At 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (136 HP @ 2600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 535 kg more than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Alfa Romeo 145. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 has manual transmission. 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 145 | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1735 kg |
