1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1986 Alfa Romeo 90
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Alfa Romeo 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 would be higher. At 2,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 (109 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 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 1986 Alfa Romeo 90. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 (235 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 has manual transmission. 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1986 Alfa Romeo 90 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | A | 90 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 49 L |
