1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (188 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (102 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1035 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (125 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 146 | R |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1370 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 2195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2990 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |
