1999 Alfa Romeo GTV vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo GTV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo GTV would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo GTV. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo GTV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 640 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo GTV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo GTV, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 391 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo GTV. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo GTV. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1999 Alfa Romeo GTV has manual transmission. 1999 Alfa Romeo GTV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo GTV | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GTV | S |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1772 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
