1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 164 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (226 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 166 | 230 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 65 L |
