1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (102 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 430 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (125 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 146 | C |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1370 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.9 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 66 L |
