1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 460 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 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 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 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 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | A | 159 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.2 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
