1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (151 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | C | 164 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
