1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (295 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 534 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 166 | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 2029 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 90 L |
