1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,798 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 320 kg more than 1989 Alfa Romeo 164. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
Model | SL | 164 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2798 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 204 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 294 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 22.0:1 |
Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |