2001 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 175 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 147 | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2950 mm |
