1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo, 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 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo Dardo | 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Dardo | S |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2950 mm |
